North Island Wine Escape

Collect your hire car and head south to Tauranga, a metropolitan hub surrounded by the Bay of Plenty's beautiful coastline. Downtown Tauranga has several historically significant areas to view and The Strand waterfront area is modern and always buzzing thanks to an array of pubs, eateries and live music (140 miles).

Before setting off, you may wish to hike Tauranga's iconic Mount Maunganui. Choose from two scenic tracks and head to the summit, which takes around 40 minutes, where you'll be rewarded with impressive views. Then drive further south to the Hawke's Bay region and the charming town of Napier (173 miles).

With street after street of stunning and beautifully-restored Art Deco buildings, it's little wonder Napier is often referred to as a 1930s film set, and one of the best ways to enjoy the streetscape is on a self-guided walk. It's also home to many fine wineries, fabulous restaurants, bars and cafés.

Travel the short distance to Havelock North, a pretty country town known for art, honey and friendly restaurants. Stroll through the village and explore the variety of boutique shops, cafés, restaurants and speciality food stores. It's also the perfect base for exploring the Tukituki River Valley as well as numerous wineries (15 miles).

Drive on to the picturesque town of Martinborough, the winery hub of the Wairarapa region. With inviting cellar doors plus annual food and wine events to discover, it's well worth raising a glass to (156 miles).

Perhaps fit in a guided wine tour or self-guided cycle ride through the vineyards. Make time for one last indulgent meal at one of the many tempting restaurants before you complete the tour by driving on to Wellington (50 miles).