The aptly named Pacific Coast Highway leads to the Bay of Plenty and the remote East Cape. Its largest city, Tauranga, wraps itself around a stunning harbour with cafes overlooking the water. The sparkling white sand beach from the famous Mount Maunganui stretches uninterrupted for 100 kms before reaching Whakatane – the gateway to the East Cape. The off shore White Island – an active volcanic outcrop is accessible by boat or helicopter. Maori life is very evident during the 330 km coastal meander around the Cape with numerous carved meeting houses and churches. Deep under the Te Urewera ranges, descendants of the ‘Children of the Mist’, the ancient Tuhoe tribe, still live in harmony with the forest around the village of Ruatahuna. From Mount Hikurangi’s peaks you can be first to see the light of each new day in the world. In surf city, Gisborne, you can savour its sun filled lifestyle and fine wine.
Highlights:
· R and R at the ‘Mount’ with Ocean Beach and the hot salt water pools
· From Whakatane take a boat trip to an active volcano, White Island
· Travel around the East Cape to Opotiki to Gisborne
· Stroll along the Tolaga Bay Wharf, all 660m of it!
· Hike up Mount Hikurangi, meaning ‘sky peak’ for rewarding views
· Whangara, the coastal settlement location for the film ‘Whale Rider’
· Gisborne and Poverty Bay, site of Captain Cook’s first landing
· Relax in the Morere Hot Springs, near the isolated Mahia Peninsular
· Te Urewera National Park and the beautiful Waikaremoana
