Isola del Nord 2: Coromandel & Rotorua da/ad Auckland

Golden beaches, rainforests and hidden bays shape the Coromandel Peninsula, one of the North Island's best-loved natural destinations, just a few hours' drive from Auckland. This finger of land reaching into the Pacific alternates rugged coastlines, turquoise waters and a mountainous interior cloaked in lush vegetation. Its most famous landmark is Cathedral Cove, a spectacular rock arch reached on foot, while at Hot Water Beach visitors dig their own natural pool in the sand, fed by thermal springs. Heritage towns such as Coromandel Town and Thames preserve the atmosphere of the gold-mining era, with art galleries, cafés and craft workshops. Trails through kauri forests and the scenic Driving Creek invite slow exploration. Among unspoilt nature, secret beaches and a relaxed pace, the Coromandel Peninsula is the ideal retreat for those seeking sea and tranquillity.

Begin a magical journey into the fantasy universe of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, created by Tolkien and made even more famous by the New Zealand director Peter Jackson. Traveling south, you pass through the Bombay Hills, the agricultural region of Waikato, and the historic town of Cambridge. Stop at the Shire's Rest in Matamata, the green countryside where the Hobbit trilogy was set. You will see the 37 hobbit holes, the double-arched bridge, the party tree, the Green Dragon Inn, and the door of Bilbo's house; a splendid view as far as the eye can see over the hills. The presence of a rich volcanic substrate, due to the presence of a chain of now extinct volcanoes, and abundant rainfall make this region one of the greenest and most fertile in the world. The most famous tourist destination on the North Island, and perhaps in all of New Zealand, stands out first and foremost for the strong smell of rotten eggs due to the abundant presence of sulfur. A lively geothermal activity with geysers, lakes and hot water streams, bubbling mud pools, and multicolored silica terraces are the main characteristics of this region, which also stands out for its large Maori population with interesting cultural activities. It is also a paradise for fishermen, with the best trout fishing in the world.