Best Things to do in the North Island in April
Enjoy Hawke’s Bay’s nature and wine double-act
Hawke’s Bay has a distinction that no region in the country, nor the world, can match: it is home to both dozens of world-class wineries AND the largest mainland gannet colony on Earth. April is an ideal time to do both. At this time, the majority of the Hawke’s Bay grape harvest is in, and wineries are busy getting started on their next vintages, with plenty of associated events, tastings, and festivals. Meanwhile at Cape Kidnappers, just a half-hour drive from Napier, the world’s largest mainland gannet colony is preparing to say goodbye to its next generation, with chicks who have been born and reared here since spring are now preparing for their first round-the-world flight. With the colony’s spectacular setting above the beach, atop ancient sandstone cliffs, seeing these majestic birds take flight can be a truly special experience.
Tackle one of the best one-day hikes in the world
In terms of locations that combine jaw-dropping scenery, otherworldly volcanic landscapes, accessible but challenging walking routes, stunning views, and instantly-recognisable Oscar-winning landscapes, the shortlist probably contains only one or two in the world. One of those is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, located just south of Lake Taupo inside the Tongariro National Park (a dual World Heritage Site for both its natural and cultural significance), which was also used by Sir Peter Jackson as the backdrop for Mordor and Mount Doom the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Frequently included on lists of the world’s best one-day hikes, the path takes you past steaming vents, crater lakes and ancient glacial landforms over the course of about 8-9 hours and 19.4 km (12 miles) of challenging – but rewarding – walking.
