You can try.. but you just cannot resist the urge to press down on the accelerator in New Zealand-especially when you hit upon the long empty stretches of roads in its rugged outback.
It's true. New Zealand is best enjoyed by renting a car or may be with your own vehicle that can be driven around at your own pace and time. Explore some off-the-beaten-paths and Kiwi journeys.
Wildlife-spotting -Catlins
Start: Kaka Point
Finish: Porpoise Bay
Distance: 86 km (53 miles)
Essential tip: pack in binoculars to for those great wildlife viewing opportunities.
Image courtesy:http://www.flickr.com/photos/keithjmurray/11421961073
Don't miss the Sky Blue Penguins and Yellow-Eyed Penguins in the sleepy Kaka Point before taking off to Nugget Point for exciting views of marine mammal action. This includes Fur Seals, sea lions and Elephant Seals. Head west to the Lost Gypsy Gallery located at Papatowai and remember to take a break at the Florence Hill lookout, before taking that detour to the rugged sweeps of Tautuku Bay.
Continue down west to Porpoise Bay's surf beaches --home to Hector's Dolphins and Blue Penguins, before calling it a day.
Matakana Wine Country
Start: Auckland
Finish: Pakiri
Distance: 86 km (53 miles)
Essential tip: Carry some extra cash for some exquisite bottles of wine.
Take a detour from NZ's main highway north at Warkworth to begin your wine country tour. While Ascension Wine Estate channels a Mediterranean ambiance, the adjacent Heron's Flight and vineyards of Runner Duck Estate are worth a look too. Visit Matakana village-the foodie's haven or savour craft beer at Leigh Sawmill Cafe-the choice is yours. The Goat Island Marine Reserve is great for snorkelling while horse riding beckons you along the surf beaches of Pakiri.
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