| By Chris O'Loughlin – eMarketing Manager | |
| Millennium Hotels and Resorts NZ | Click on the map below to enlarge it. |
Millennium Hotels and Resorts is one of New Zealand's leading accommodation providers with hotels located from Bay of Islands in the North to Dunedin in the South. We'd like to encourage you to take a break and explore your own back yard, by uncovering some of the amazing destinations our country has to offer.
One of the most popular year round destinations is Northland. A mild climate, picturesque coastline and abundance of things to do and see, make it an ideal playground for Kiwi's and international visitors alike. Treat yourself to a twin coast experience taking in the rugged, mostly unspoiled west coast, contrasting with the more populated yet relaxed towns and ports of the east.
Head north on State Highway 12 via Dargaville, through the Waipoua Forest, home of Tane Mahuta, the country's largest kauri tree (approximately 2,000 years old and still growing!). Make sure you stop for a photo opportunity at the Pakia Hill Lookout, which provides amazing views over the Hokianga Harbour and sand dunes. The photo won't really do it justice, but at least it will serve as a reminder of that gasp you took on first sight of this truly breathtaking view.
Nestled on the water's edge of the harbour, is Copthorne Hotel and Resort Hokianga, offering a peaceful relaxed haven away from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can be forgiven for thinking you've just stepped back into early colonial times or that you've somehow been transported to an island paradise, for this location is certainly one of the west coast's best kept secrets.
Literally one minute's stroll from the shore, waterfront rooms with private balcony or patio provide unspoilt views of the harbour and towering sand dunes. Dine alfresco style at the House Bar and Bistro overlooking the harbour, or select from an excellent à la carte menu at Bryers Restaurant featuring fresh locally grown produce along with mouth-watering seafood.
Click here to view a video of the hotel and what to see and do around the Hokianga.
Having refreshed your body and soul, head east to the Bay of Islands. Whilst you can continue on State Highway 12 to Highway 1, I'd recommend the slightly longer but more scenic route via the Rawene car ferry to Kohukohu. The 10 minute crossing is relatively cheap (about $15 per car and $2 per passenger), and is an experience not to be missed. Ferries depart every hour on the half hour, but arrive early so you have time to take a walk around this historic sawmill town complete with classic kauri architecture, the Masonic Hotel and Boat Shed Café and local gallery.
Driving into Paihia, Bay of Islands and turn left onto the parade, heading north along the beachfront to historic Waitangi. Set amongst 60 acres of sub tropical gardens within the Treaty Grounds, is the Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands. The hotel's superb waterfront location with balconied rooms overlooking the Bay, lush gardens or harbour, provides a tranquil retreat after a few hours travelling.
Resort facilities include tennis court, spectacular free form lagoon style swimming pool with outdoor spa, mountain bike hire, Pure Bliss day spa, boat jetty and ramp. Enjoy casual dining with an indoor/outdoor flow at Copthorne's Café Bar beside the pool, or fine á la carte or buffet dining at Waitangi Restaurant, also overlooking the lagoon pools and with a glimpse of Russell across the Bay. Paihia wharf and shopping area is a 15-20 minute stroll away or you can make use of the resort's courtesy shuttle.
Click here to view a video about the hotel and things to do and see in the Bay of Islands.
Whether you're travelling by car, bus, train or plane, at the end of your journey you'll welcome the comfort and convenience of accommodation at Millennium, Copthorne and Kingsgate Hotels, located throughout New Zealand at popular destinations, key gateway cities or out-of-the-way locations where true Kiwi hospitality abounds. Discover the real New Zealand – it's all in your own backyard.
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