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Set in a beautiful location, Whangarei is the only city in the northernmost reaches of New Zealand; it is a gateway to the amazing natural wonders all around it. With a laidback vibe in the town, things are slowly changing; a new art museum, shopping center and restaurant complex have opened up and there are some great bars and cafes around town. While there are lots of fabulous beaches around Whangarei to relax on, most people head to the Poor Knights Islands for their fantastic scuba diving, or to the delightfully scenic Bay of Islands.

Now the fifth-largest city in the country, Tauranga has steadily been growing over the years, as retirees and young families alike flock here in search of the cheaper housing options. While its busy port, petrol refineries and traffic-filled streets mean that it may not be the prettiest of cities, its lovely beaches and lively waterfront definitely make it a nice place to stop by. With some fantastic restaurants and bars on offer, Tauranga’s distinctive Mount Maunganui is a stunning spot with a world-class beach. Visitors can also take a trip to nearby White Island – an awesome live volcano to explore.

With stunning Mount Taranaki dominating the horizon, New Plymouth is a picturesque port town that is surrounded by sprawling farmland. It has a lively, cosmopolitan feel to it, and there is a thriving arts and culture scene – you can attend some brilliant concerts and festivals here during the year. There are many great cafes and restaurants to be found and some delightful surf spots and beaches nearby. Don’t miss out on the nearby spectacular Mt Egmont National Park.

With stunning scenery greeting you almost everywhere you look, New Zealand’s coastal cities are set amidst some astounding natural sights and really are amazing to behold. Mountains and volcanoes surround them and lakes, rivers and islands border them; the best cities in New Zealand have a plethora of incredible outdoor activities for you to take part in. Away from the adrenaline-inducing zip-lines and river-rafting, some fantastic festivals and cultural events take place in New Zealand and there are some great museums and galleries to explore. With some top-notch wineries on offer and a bustling craft brewery scene, paired with delicious cuisine and fantastic restaurants, your taste buds are in for an absolute treat. The intoxicating mix of Pacific Island and United Kingdom cultures makes its cities captivating and enlightening to explore.