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Months before the trip, I have researched and looked at loads of New Zealand websites. As mum to one year old Clayton, my top requirement in my search for New Zealand accommodation is a place that can enable me to do some simple cooking.

For me, it’s important to sleep comfortably when on a vacation. This must, of course, be accompanied with good location at a good price. Then comes facilities and quality standards which also play an important role when making choices.

The places we slept in New Zealand, North Island are:

The Duxton Hotel, Auckland

The Sebel Suites, Auckland

The Ascott Metropolis, Auckland

The Crows Nest Villas, Opua

Cathedral Cove Villas, Hahei

Oceanside Twin Tower Resort, Mount Maunganui

Troutbeck Cottage, Rotorua

Baycrest Lodge, Lake Taupo

The Bolton Hotel, Wellington

New Zealand, North Island is made up of the following regions:

Auckland

Northland & Corormandel

Waikato & Bay of Plenty

Rotorua, Taupo & Tongariro National Park

Gisborne & Hawkes Bay

Taranaki & Wanganui

Wellington

Of which, we could only cover:

Auckland

Northland & Coromandel

Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty

Rotorua & Taupo

Wellington

Unless you have time (like more than a month), you can’t possibly visit every region in the North Island. Remember that New Zealand is a big country. Therefore, you would need some smart and careful planning to enjoy your holiday in New Zealand. That’s where the New Zealand road map comes in handy!

If you are not the adventurous sort and prefer to see all the popular highlights in New Zealand, I suggest you join a package tour. Or, the better option would be to plan your trip according to your interests and liking with the help of a New Zealand road map. Focus on certain regions and activities. This way, your New Zealand holiday will be more memorable and you will not end up tiring yourself with too much activities.

Opposed to the comments we received on the North Island from many of our friends, we find that the North Island has its own beauty and characteristics which the South Island may not deliver. Before you do anything, don’t forget to pick up a New Zealand road map.

If you are a shopaholic, there are many places where you can pick up a New Zealand gift to take home. Whatever your travel options are – budget or luxury, you will be spoilt for choices, here in New Zealand, North Island.