12 Why choose Discover the World - see page 3 For our offi ce opening hours please visit our websiteNorthlandTwin Coasts - Maritime - Historical RootsStretching 350km north from Auckland, Northland is New Zealand's only sub-tropical region and with its above average sunshine record and glorious beaches, it is popular with locals as well as visitors. Winters are mild and citrus fruits and even bananas grow among its gentle hills and valleys. To the east, on the sheltered Pacifi c coast, is the renowned Bay of Islands where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, in which the Maori chieftains sealed their future alongside that of the 'pakeha', the whites. Today the Treaty House, Maori Meeting House and 100ft long war canoe compete for visitor attention with the natural attractions. Gorgeous white sand beaches dissolve into a turquoise sea studded with many islands that can be readily explored on a scenic cruise, dolphin swimming excursion or big game fi shing trip. The small town of Paihia is a favourite place to stay, being centrally located and within a short distance of Waitangi Reserve, while historic Russell is smaller and more peaceful. Thrashed by the Tasman Sea, the windswept west coast couldn't be more different, its long beaches backed by dunes and forests of ancient kauri trees. The oceans meet at New Zealand's northernmost accessible point, Cape Reinga, a volcanic outcrop at the end of Ninety Mile Beach. Specially equipped coaches drive along this superb stretch of sand and surf, following the trail of the 'spirits'. Legend has it that the departing spirits of the Maori head north along this route to leap off the headland into the sea.Must Do's Swim with the dolphins in the Bay of Islands Experience Cape Reinga, the "leaping place of spirits" Drive the stunning Twin Coast Discovery Highway Enjoy an overnight cruise on Ipipiri Take a cultural journey of discovery in Hokianga Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds© Ben Crawford

We RecommendNorthland HighlightsWaitangi DayEventWaitangi Day on 6th February celebrates the "Birth of the Nation" on this day in 1840 with the signing of the Treaty of WaitangiTe Hoenga WakaExperienceExperience a spiritual journey with the local Ngapuhi Maori in Te Hoenga Waka at Haruru Falls5-Day Twin Coast ExplorerDay 1 Auckland-Mangawhai Follow the route less travelled along the east coast to Mangawhai and Bream Bay. A cliff-top walkway offers extensive views of the offshore islands.Day 2 Mangawhai-Bay of Islands Drive to the Bay of Islands, one of the country's most historically significant areas and where a host of marine adventures await.Day 3 Bay of Islands-Karikari Peninsula Continue north taking a very scenic detour to Matauri Bay en route to the quiet beauty of this unspoiled area.Day 4 Karikari Peninsula-Hokianga Drive to Cape Reinga and the northern tip of the country or take a scenic flight from Kaitaia before returning to follow the west coast to Hokianga Harbour.Day 5 Hokianga-Auckland Journey south through the giant kauri trees of Waipoua Forest en route to Auckland.Carrington ResortAccommodationTake a few days out to enjoy the seclusion and relaxation of a stay in the Far North at Carrington Resort, Karikari PeninsulaThe Kauri MuseumAttractionThe Kauri Museum at Dargaville tells the fascinating story of pioneering settlers through the theme of the magnificent kauri tree.The Duke of MarlboroughAccommodationStay at the iconic Duke of Marlborough Hotel in historic Russell, New Zealand's first capitalVIP Helicopter Tour (Heli Wine Tasting)ExperienceFly by helicopter with Salt Air from Paihia up to Karikari Peninsula and enjoy a VIP guided wine and food experience in this stunning part of Northland, the "winterless north"!Our viewVisiting the Bay of Islands on Waitangi day is an amazing experience you'll never forget.discover-the-world.co.uk/newzealandbrochure talk to the experts 01737 218 80013