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Government Gardens –The historic gardens around the city’s Tudor-style Bath House are a lovely spot for a breath of fresh air, with pretty rose gardens to wander among.

Here’s a stunning 2,000 hectare sand and shingle peninsula, ripe for exploration, and just a short drive from the city.

You’ll love the vibe at this wild, driftwood-strewn, black sand beach, where you can blow away those city cobwebs and just enjoy the fun of beach combing on a windy day!

Cape Reinga. The lighthouse is a common New Zealand icon and a popular tourist destination although the lighthouse itself is not open to the public.

Take time to smell the roses, and rhododendrons, and lots more, at this charming garden area.

The Rere Falls Reserve is a sweet spot for a picnic, with the added bonus of an impressive waterfall. There’s a picnic area where you can chill out and swimming holes beneath the falls, so don’t forget your togs!

Ohinemutu Maori Village – It’s only a gold coin ‘koha’ (gift) to visit, so it’s as good as free, and it’s a wonderful chance to experience a marae and to witness traditional Maori culture.

Get yourself a brochure online or at an information centre, and explore this small Southern township by car.

Kuirau Park, Rotorua – Kuirau Park is a fabulous little thermal hot spot - best of all, you won’t have to pay to see the thick bubbling mud pools, and the steaming vents and hot lake.

Starting at Whites Bay, this pleasant track zig-zags up the hill through a pine plantation, follows Port Underwood Road for a short stretch, then winds down to the wild sweep of Rarangi Beach.