Great Barrier Island is a peaceful and relaxed paradise catering for those who enjoy nature, white sandy beaches and an unhurried island lifestyle. Situated 90 km (55 miles) from Auckland, Great Barrier Island is the furthermost island in the Hauraki Gulf, and the largest measuring over 40 km (25 miles) in length. Tryphena is the southernmost settlement, the terminus for 65 km (40 miles) of roads which link the different villages. Scenic bus tours depart everyday to let you see the Island. Over half the Island is administered by the Department of Conservation as a recreational park.
 
Walking tracks range from short easy walks, to day hikes including overnight camping. Other activities include kayaking and horse riding. Native birdlife unique to the island is found throughout, and exploring the rugged wilderness allows visitors the opportunity to get back to nature. Also popular is a visit to the natural geothermal hot-springs suitable for bathing.

Great Barrier Island's unspoiled white sandy beaches offer excellent swimming, surfing and snorkelling. Coastal waters include many sheltered inlets to explore by sea-kayak or boat. The clear waters of the outer Hauraki Gulf make it one of the most extraordinary aquatic recreation areas in the world. Water clarity is commonly between 15 and 20 metres (50-65 ft), and over a hundred different fish species inhabit the waters.
 
An ideal place for a vacation, Great Barrier Island's local residents often exhibit a refreshing simplicity and untroubled approach to life.  If you love the wilderness and getting back to nature, Great Barrier Island is the perfect travel destination.

Waiheke Island is the second largest of the Hauraki Gulf islands, and the most populated. Situated 35 minutes ferry ride from downtown Auckland, it is an ideal destination for a day-trip, or stay awhile and experience the gentle, unhurried island pace. Accommodation to suit all preferences and budgets is available. Waiheke Island has a reputation as one of New Zealand's leading wine producing areas. There are more than 25 vineyards on the Island. Experience a vineyard tour and discover the age-old traditions of wine making. The Island offers a plentiful selection of cafes and restaurants with many sited to provide spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf or nearby vineyards. Most are fully licensed and range from a-la-carte restaurants to wine bar cafes, family cafes and a gourmet hamburger bar. Some are venues for live music. Scenic tours are a great way to discover the Island. Various commentated tours are available. Enjoy a walk along a white sandy beach, or explore one of the many scenic walkways that provide breath-taking views of the Island's coastline and Hauraki Gulf waters. There is a nine hole golf course, and other leisure activities include horse trekking, sea kayaking, scenic flights, bike, scooter and car rentals. Relax with a glass of fine wine and a meal at one of the Island's many restaurants and cafes. Waiheke Island is an enchanting blend of beaches, native bush, farms, arts & crafts, and vineyards set in an unhurried lifestyle.

Kapiti Island is located 50 km (30 miles) north of Wellington. The Island's size is 10 km long and about 2 km wide. The highest point, Tuteremoana, is 521 metres (1709 ft) above sea-level. Birdlife on Kapiti Island includes the Little Spotted Kiwi, Kaka, Kakariki, Robin, Saddleback, Stitchbird, Weka, Kereru, & Bellbirds. Rare and threatened birds such as the Saddleback and Stitchbird are no longer present on the NZ mainland, but survive on Kapiti Island's predator-free reserve. Commercial charter boats allow visitors access to Kapiti Island where a number of short walks are available.