Raglan is one of our favourite places to visit for an afternoon, for the day or even for a small getaway! It's a great little coastal town that has so much to offer. Spend the afternoon on the black sand beaches swimming and watching the many surfers, walk around the town, go shopping in some of their quaint boutique stores or experience their great array of cafes and restaurants. Definitely a strong recommendation if you have the time.
If you're a Lord of the Rings fan, you are in luck! Hobbiton is a short drive from Cambridge and is wildly popular. We advise to book early so you don't miss out!
Famous for their abundance of glow worms, extensive underground river system and stunning stalactite and stalagmites formations, a trip to the Waitomo caves is a trip to another world. There are 3 main caves (the main glowworm cave, Ruakuri Cave, Aranui Cave), as well as multiple walking tracks around the area. Maybe try some black water rafting (for those adrenaline junkies). We completed the black water rafting here the day after we were engaged, and we were both amazed at the cave system & the amount of glowworms! A couple of free sights = Mangapohue natural bridge, Marokopa Falls, and Piripiri Cave walk (another 20minutes down the road past Waitomo caves).
Taupo is New Zealands largest lake! The water is gloriously clear with some fantastic swimming spots. The lake near the town is always bustling with an array of sports on the water...even golf! Or find some of the less busy spots and feel like you have the lake all to yourself. There are even parts of the lake that feel like you're at the beach, with great accessibility for kids without the big waves!
Tauranga / Mount Maunganui in the Bay of Plenty has plenty to offer! Another coastal location, great for walking around the town and lots of swimming locations. Stop in at McLaren falls, Pori Pori Waterholes, or Omanawa falls for a quick swim on route.
The Coromandel, renowned for its pristine beaches, misty forests and laid-back vibe, is one of New Zealand's most popular holiday destinations. Maybe visit Whangamatā, the Hot Water Beach, or Cathedral Cove
Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing Māori culture. There are heaps of crystal-clear streams and magical forests, as well as epic biking trails and thermal mud pools.
Te Aroha - aka The mountain of love. Known for its hot springs, farming, and mountain backdrop.
Cambridge has a lot to offer. It is known for its grassy plains, horse studs, leafy trees, and heritage buildings. Easy trips from here could include Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway), Lake Karapiro, Hamilton Gardens or even Pirongia Forest Park.
If you enjoy hiking, walking, and being outdoors there is an abundance of areas to explore. Feel free to reach out and we can tell you our favourites.