Where in the world could you ski down an active volcano, lounge on a secluded beach or try your hand at trout fishing, all in the same day? New Zealand’s wide choice of leisure activities is due to the country’s diverse terrain. Offering stupendous lakes, sandy coastal beaches, lush green forests, and volcanic landscapes, the central region of New Zealand’s North Island is no exception to this rule.

Rotorua

Situated in central North Island is the township of Rotorua, New Zealand’s tourist capital. In fact, this popular destination is so abundant with visitors it’s been nicknamed Rotor-Vegas by the locals. Rotorua has been shaped by volcanism, and this is certainly its winning attraction. From the geothermal areas, sulphuric atmosphere and rich Maori culture, it certainly doesn’t lack character.

The Wai-O-Tapu centre (20 minutes south of town), displays Rotorua’s most colourful assortment of geothermal activity. There is one sight at the Wai-O-Tapu centre more memorable and frequently photographed than any other — The Champagne Pool. Grey and orange rocks line a steaming pool of turquoise water, creating a remarkable and puzzling sight.

Adjacent to the Champagne Pool rests the Artist’s Palette — a diverse volcanic area displaying ever-changing colours. Next you will encounter New Zealand’s largest bubbling mud pools and the Lady Knox Geyser which erupts daily. And that’s not all, around every corner lurks steaming, hissing vents and lakes so fluorescent you could be fooled into thinking someone had poured water colours into them!

Taupo

An easy 80km drive south from Rotorua leads you to Taupo. Also shaped by its volcanic past, Taupo’s main attraction — its lake — is a result of the largest volcanic eruption in 5000 years. Catering to all ages and interests, activities range from skydiving and bungee jumping, to fishing and shooting.

If you’re looking for an all-round family pleaser, Taupo Hot Springs could be your savior. The centre offers public and private mineral hot-tubs, as well as a fun hydro-slide to entertain the kids. Visit in the evening and you will be greeted with a truly calming atmosphere.

During the day you must visit Huka Falls. At this point, the winding Waikato River (normally 100 metres across), slims to just 15 metres. Previously untroubled, the Waikato River now picks up speed and hurtles 220 000 litres of water per second over an 11-meter drop! There are several lookout points around the area. Alternately, if you don’t mind getting wet you can ride the Huka Falls Jet boat down to the base of the falls.

Avid hikers will love Taupo for its many nature trails. Those eager for adventure can attempt the dormant volcano, Mount Tauhara. Taking just over an hour to reach the summit, you will be rewarded with superb views back across the lake. However, a word of caution; an ambiguous track, steep ascents, and difficult in locating the top can prove challenging.

Tongariro National Park

An hour drive from Taupo lays the three volcanoes of the Tongariro National Park — Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. Most popular for its ski fields and hiking trails, this area also offers rock climbing, white water rafting, trout fishing and mountain biking all year round.

From June to November, the 2797-metre tall Mount Ruapehu becomes New Zealand’s largest and most popular ski resort. This active volcano is home to two majestic ski areas, Whakapapa and Turoa. Mount Ruapehu also accommodates Whakapapa Village — a great location if you want to stay close to the ski fields.

Whakapapa village is also alive-and-kicking in the summer months for passionate hikers and tourists exploring the area. As well as short walks such as the Taranaki Falls trail (two hours), there is the Tongariro Crossing which takes six to seven hours. Voted as one of New Zealand’s best day-walks, you will pass through emerald lakes, lava flows, and active volcanoes.

Coromandel

A three-hour drive from Rotorua will take you into one of New Zealand’s best loved locations — the Coromandel Peninsula. Hahei, a small beachside village on the east coast, is an artists and writers paradise. Its charming hillside wineries, remote surroundings, and quaint nature provide the prefect destination for a weekend retreat. Yet be warned, the only convenience store shuts at 6.30pm and the next major town, Whitianga, is a long drive!

Hahei’s main attraction is its much photographed Cathedral Cove. Only accessible by foot or boat, a 40 minute footpath will lead you through native New Zealand bush to the site. The grand archway of Cathedral Cove links Gemstone and Stingray Bay. Make the most of your time here and enjoy a picnic or snorkel once you reach this secluded spot.

With such varied landscape, New Zealand does not only deliver spectacular scenery, but can accommodate a whole host of varied pursuits, sports and interests. Whether it be hiking, skiing, or skydiving that takes your fancy, Central North Island has a range of activities to keep any visitor happy. There is however something that all visitors to New Zealand must have in common — a love for the outdoors.