scampr
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North Island ▷ Wellington Region ▷ Wellington ▷
The Overlander Train
Very long journey so take a book, ipod player, pillow, etc.
Seats are old airplane style but I think are due to be upgraded soon. We took cards but couldn't play due to the nature of the seats. Kids (train crazy) loved the journey surprisingly considering the long journey, especially the outside viewing platform and the small lounge area in the back carriage of the train (great for photos). The hot food on board is prone to running out so I think a well stock picnic bag might be a better idea. However the kapiti ice cream is nice for a mid afternoon and the overall food selection/pricing much better than it used to be. The viaducts and tunnels are the best bits, and if you can, arrange for nice weather so you can see the mountains. lol Tip: take a detailed route map with you so you can follow along where you are.
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North Island ▷ Wellington Region ▷ Wellington ▷
Wellington Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Garden Cafe does the best iced coffee, perfect cool down after wandering around the gardens.
Nice playground for kids including flying fox and side by side slide. Cable car saves the uphill walking, leaving a nice meandering downhill walk.
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North Island ▷ Auckland Region ▷ Miranda ▷
Kaiaua Boat Club Reserve
Fabulous spot where you can watch the boating activities and relax.
Caught a glorious sunrise over the water. Really handy to the best fish and chips too, one of those rare places that uses fresh as fish and real fat to fry in, not rancid oil! Also handy in this little seaside town is a dairy and playground. What a privelege to be able to stay at this spot, thanks boat club!
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North Island ▷ Rotorua Region ▷ Rotorua ▷
The Redwoods
Best place to mtb ever!
Can be a bit daunting first time with the sheer number of trails and sorting out a workable route so go with someone who rides there often of a similar ability otherwise for brave or regular mtbs a fav is to take the shuttle then do billy t - > split enz - > pondy etc then head off to do mad if you don't and be rude not to. For a first time out or for the more sedate/kids do the bottom loop of tahi through to dipper or try there is the beautiful new river trail.