With summer on the not-too-distant horizon – yes! – you’ll be thinking of ways to shape up for more tog-friendly weather. Luckily by exploring our own backyard, New Zealand’s wild landscapes save ass the ultimate outdoor gym. From ultimate Great Walks to snowy terrain built for skiing and snowboarding, we really have it all.
Before COVID hit our shores, research showed that being physically active while travelling is one of the top motivations to tav elk for nearly half of kiwi travellers. Now, I’m more of a window-shopping cardio type of traveller, there’s a trip out there to suit every fitness level. To help us all get moving, and dust off the pandemic-induced baking, we are sharing our top five fitness breaks across New Zealand.
Mountain biking the Old Ghost Road, West Coast
The Old Ghost Road is an 85km-long adventure through native forest, river flats and forgotten valleys. Originally a gold miners’ road, the trail connects the old dray road in the Lyell (Upper Buller Gorge) to the mighty Mokihinui River in the north. The road gets its name from the five ghost towns that populate its route. So if the tricky terrain doesn’t get your heart pumping, the spirits of old miners certainly will. This is a fitness break for the brave!
Where to stay:
At the end of your journey, you’ll want somewhere comfortable in Seddonville to recover. Despite its eerie name, The Ghost Lodge sports stunning west coast views. The beautiful lodge is fully equipped with all the amenities for a cosy stay, you’ll be feeling rested and ready to go again in no time.
Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tongariro
There are countless Great Walks in New Zealand, but not all of them can be completed in less than a day. No matter what your fitness level, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing will get you outdoors and your lungs working. The six to eight hour hike showcases New Zealand in its varied beauty – from the perfectly shaped Mount Ngauruhoe (famous for featuring as “Mount Doom” in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings film), the vivid Red Crater and the luminous Emerald Lakes.
Where to stay
You’ll want a good night’s sleep before your early morning start. Something of a reward, a stay at the Chateau Tongariro Hotel is in order! As well as dazzling views of Mount Ngauruhoe, the Chateau offers an on-site 9-hole golf course and a cinema within its grand interiors. To ensure you start the hike with plenty of calories to burn off, why not enjoy the delights of one of the delicious high teas? You won’t regret it.
Kayaking the Abel Tasman, Tasman region
Why enjoy the Abel Tasman by foot when you can enjoy it by kayak? Glide through glassy waters along this world-famous granite coast for an fitness break unlike any other. Guaranteed to work-out your arms and abs, you’ll end your experience more than summer-ready. With day-trip and multi-trip options, there will be options no matter how much time you have off work.
Where to stay
Located just five minutes away from the National Park and the beach in Marahau, the beautiful Ocean View Chalets are nestled among native bush. The self-contained chalets offer panoramic sea views and everything you need to either prepare or recover from a busy day of kayaking. A buffet breakfast is also available on-site.
Sand-boarding at Ninety Mile Beach, Bay of Islands
For a fitness activity with a difference look no further than Ninety Mile Beach. As part of Fullers GreatSights Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach Day Tour, you can enjoy a coach ride to the iconic Cape Reinga lighthouse (where, according to Maori legend, spirits depart New Zealand for their journey home to Hawaiki) as well as boarding down the enormous sand dunes at Ninety Mile Beach. Clambering up these enormous dunes will give your legs a serious work-out before settling in for your comfy coach journey back to Paihia in the Bay of Islands.
Where to stay
Refreshing rascals and reprobates since 1827, historic The Duke of Marlborough Hotel is known across New Zealand. Located in romantic Russell, just a quick ferry ride across from Paihia, The Duke offers waterfront views and delicious food from its on-site restaurant. This unique accommodation is truly a treat for anyone who stays there.
Surfing in Raglan
New Zealand has an abundance of surf-spots, but nowhere offers the same laid-back, hippy-dippy vibe as Raglan. Its constant swell means it offers the most consistent experience in New Zealand, and the popularity of the town means there is always something to after the tide comes in. From coffee shops to fashion boutiques to gig venues, Raglan offers fun as well as fitness.
Where to stay
Located on Lily Street, Journeys End is a three-bedroom apartment complete with free bikes, a bar and a spa. Snuggle down in a beanbag to enjoy the ocean views from the property’s beautiful wooden deck or enjoy some dinner at the on-site restaurant before heading out to enjoy Raglan – New Zealand’s surf mecca
Words: Georgia Rose & Booking.com
Images: Supplied