NORTH ISLAND doesn't get the credit it deserves, sometimes sitting in the shadow of the South Island's stunning landscape. In fact, I would argue that if given the choice between the two, I would choose the North Island to go back to. Hundreds of vineyards, beautiful beaches and a subtropical climate make it a bucket-list must.

Sleep: The Boatshed, Huka Lodge, Cape Kidnappers, Warekauhau Lodge

Eat: The Oyster Inn, Mudbrick Vineyards, Origin Earth Cheese Company, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers (and make sure to drink local NZ wines with every meal)

See: Waiheke Island, Man-o-War Vineyards, Tom's Bach, Gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers, golf at Cape Kidnappers, Wai-o-Tapu, and sheep... lots and lots of sheep. BAHHH.