The summer in New Zealand rolls on - the weather remains warm and the nights are still long, making it the perfect time to get out there and do something new in this amazing country of ours.
The Project and AM are travelling around Aotearoa to meet cool characters and find its hidden gems, unlocking secret local knowledge on the best ways to enjoy each region.
To get you going The Project has partnered with Tourism New Zealand to give away ten x $3000 House of Travel vouchers. To score one, enter here and tune into The Project every night for the next two weeks, and follow Tony's adventures to different regions around the country and try to guess where he is on The Great Aotearoa Roadie.
Our team at Newshub has also taken the liberty of speaking to four awesome tourism operators who have some of the most exciting experiences to give you some inspiration on how to make the most of what's left of the summer!
Horseback riding
If an incredibly scenic horseback ride amongst the backdrop of native bush and the mighty Pacific Ocean tickles your fancy, do yourself a favour and check out Tuidale Stables.
There's nothing quite like cantering through waves as they roll onto Uretiti Beach while the sun sets over Northland.
Located in Waipu, stunning scenery and guided adventures are on offer with options for bush trails, sand dune tracks, and of course that magical part of the stunning Bream Bay coast, so there's something for everyone!
Amy Clements is one of three owner operators of Tuidale Stables who look after their team of trusty steeds and offer unforgettable horse riding adventures through bush trails and along Uretiti Beach from their family farm in Northland.
"We really enjoy sharing our beautiful beachy backyard with visitors who in turn enjoy some time out experiencing the coastal country lifestyle," says Amy.
Each booking is private and it gives riders the freedom to enjoy the experience instead of being grouped with other guests.
But don't worry if you've never been on a horse before, the nerves go away once everything is explained and demonstrated. "For some guests, trying out a trot or cantering along a white sandy beach through the waves, has been a lifelong dream ticked off the bucket list and memories to last a lifetime!"
See some wildlife on a scenic cruise
The breath-taking Marlborough Sounds were formed when a collection of ancient sunken river valleys were backfilled with beautiful blue Pacific Ocean water, making for a modern wonderland that is an absolute joy to explore in summer.
Arguably the best way to experience this incredible part of the country is aboard a scenic cruise. Beachcomber Cruises in Picton offer comfortable cruises with amazing views and a chance to look out for delightful wildlife - if you're lucky you may even see diving dolphins, playful seals or a lone blue penguin.
But your options aren't just limited to cruises: let the team organise your mountain bike adventure, Queen Charlotte Track hike or even lunch at a beloved Marlborough winery, followed by an afternoon of wine tasting. Bliss!
Beachcomber Cruises’ acting General Manager Jessica Jones says if you're looking for something new and exciting to try out, hop on the daily Mail Boat Cruise. "The Picton Mail Boat Cruise has been delivering mail to the residents in these waterways for over 150 years. So we share the experience as our skipper delivers mail, freight and groceries to the families that call these remote bays home."
Hop on a rail cart or jet boat
Why not explore one of the most mysterious parts of Aotearoa while learning about its fascinating history at Forgotten World Adventures in Taumarunui. Nothing beats hearing the heritage stories of our hardy pioneers while travelling the same paths they did.
These folks offer a journey in unique rail carts along 140km of a historic railway line, which can be combined with a thrilling jet boat ride along the Whanganui River, or even a helicopter flight over the Whanganui National Park and the Bridge to Nowhere.
Knowledgeable local guides will join you on the journey with captivating stories that will stay with you and make sure New Zealand's Forgotten World is never actually forgotten.
General Manager Kara Matheson says there's so much variety at Forgotten World. "Being able to self-drive a golf cart along the track allows you to see a part of New Zealand you just wouldn't see from your car," she says.
"We have some amazing 'hidden' gems here, you just need to scratch beneath the surface a little bit and take the time to explore. Take in the incredible Mountains - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, Ruapehu, and the iconic Whangamomona Hotel is the perfect stay-over or watering hole. We even have the longest commercial jet boat ride in the Southern Hemisphere right here along the mighty Whanganui River - the longest navigable river in New Zealand and the first river IN THE WORLD to be granted the same legal status as a human!"
Take a walk among the trees
Westcoast Treetop Walk is a 15 minute drive south of Hokitika and is the number one rated tree walk in the South Island.
It makes for an exhilarating stroll 20m high among temperate rainforest giants, with beautiful native birds providing the soundtrack as you walk and marvel at the ancient rimu and kamahi canopy.
Allow at least 45 minutes to enjoy this treetop adventure and longer if you care to dine at the onsite café. For those who want to get even higher, the 47m Hokitika Tower is sure to get your heart pumping as you race to its top, where you can take in sensational views of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea.
Westcoast Treetop Walk Manager Vonnie Cherry says she loves seeing people's reaction when they arrive and discover what a beautiful paradise it is. "We offer a new perspective and way of looking at our beautiful rain forest from 20m above and 47m above the top of the spiral tower," she says.
"The Treetop Tower is quite an exciting climb up a spiral staircase that offers uninterrupted views of both the Southern Alps as well as the Tasman Sea. And even better, the views over Lake Mahinapua put on a beautiful show of snow capped Southern alps - it's just stunning!".
And it's not just breath-taking views you'll get to embrace on your visit, there's also a chance to get up close and personal to some of the birdlife and fauna.
"Experience life with the birds, high in the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy! The Punga trees look amazing from above with their lovely canopy."
From nature lovers to bird enthusiasts, there's something unique for everyone to do and see at this beautiful paradise.
Enter here and remember to tune into The Project to be in to win a $3000 House of Travel voucher and win with the Great Aotearoa Roadie!
This article was created for 100% Pure New Zealand.
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