introduction

The North Island is one of the two main islands of New Zealand and the world's 14th-largest island (113,729 square km in area). The island is smaller than the South Island, but is more populous, with half of the country's population living north of Lake Taupo, in the middle of the island.

 

surfing

An incredible island of enormous natural beauty and some of the best cold water surfing on the planet. The famous breaks are well known by surfers worldwide but some of the lesser known gems of this area of New Zealand are only now just creeping onto the radar screen of worldwide surf travellers. If uncrowded lineups and clasic coldwater points, reefs and breaks are your thing then find a travelling partner and get thee south young man - theres a lot to see.

travel

There are many ways of travelling in New Zealand: by plane, private jet, train, bus, ferry, recreational vehicle (RV), motorcycle, bike, thumb or car.
If you care about your carbon footprint and you just love riding a bike, than it’s an option for you. Just remember to wear a helmet (otherwise you may be fined), ride on the left and be prepared for the large distances between towns and cities and the generally windy weather. Some areas are flat, but be aware of long periods of cycling up hills, especially in the Coromandel.
Buses are a relatively cheap and it is another environmentally friendly way to get around New Zealand. These are some companies for your consideration: Newmans Coaches, IInterCity Coachlines, Flexi-Pass, Backpacker buses, Atomic Shuttles, Naked Bus.


Domestic flights in New Zealand are often cheaper than driving or taking the train, especially when crossing between the North and South Islands. But flying with your bike can be expensive and problematic, so better get it on arrival. Booking on-line via the Internet is the cheapest way to buy tickets. You can fly with Air New Zealand, Qantas, Freedom Air or Pacific Blue.

Car is a good option as well. And you don’t need a four-wheel drive to reach the best places. To get your car between the North and South Islands you will need to take a ferry across Cook Strait (there are sailings between Wellington and Picton).
Motorcycle is a great way to travel around and you can rent one throughout the country.

Hitchhiking is generally possible, but illegal on motorways. Trains are ok, but run at low speed and are comparatively expensive, so locals prefer to drive or fly.

where to stay

Campervan (Motorhome) is a very popular and cheap option, especially if you are travelling with a group of 6 people. The price for the trabsport and accomodation in this case will be around AUS$100, so devide by 6 and you will see where you can save some money! Vans also have all the facilities you might need inside, which makes travelling like that very comfortable and definitely gives you more freedom.

If you like camping, you may like the idea of Holiday park Cabins with ensuites!  This will be very cheap and you will be close to te nature.

For more comfort try Novotel - a a chain of 4-star hotels with good locations.

what to pack

Trainers, loose clothing - everything for the warm weather. Try to choose classics, and items that you can mix and match. Have at least one set of nicer clothing for more formal occasions. Cotton is the best.

Definitely take along some bug repellent spray, good sunscreen and sunglasses! Better take your medicines with you (esp. anti histamine tablets), as the brands can be unfamiliar and cost more. A small backpack makes a good carryon bag and will be useful in daily life.  Women: remember to take a good flat pair of shoes.... And for everybody: pair of comfortable walking shoes will be great for walking.  

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