If in winter, go north. Not sure how much is too much driving but I'd head as far as you like up the east coast maybe as far as Matauri Bay. Then come back down the west coast Hokianga, Kai Iwi, Dargaville.
Ditch the road trip and take a plane to great barrier island. Hike windy canyon, do the hike to the natural hot pool, and sightsee at some of the more stunning beaches of the country.
Thanks, that sounds exciting. Hadn't considered it. A bit worried about dong this this time of the year, with the wrong weather and shorter days, it could end up being a tough time ?
The distances are big, so you would want to rent a car on the island.
The postcard bit of windy canyon is within 15mins walk of the road. If the weather is bad, or you are not feeling it, just do that bit. You can continue along the ridgeline a little if you want to extend it as much as you like (going to MT Hobson would turn it into 3 hours return) - There is a network of tracks, huts etc if you are into serious hiking.
I just did the windy canyon bit, took photos and went back to the car.
Kaitoke Hot Springs Track is 1 hr each way. A decent chunk is boardwalk Built to a standard that it is suitable for wheelchairs / strollers etc.
But yeah, you are off season. We went in offseason (but a long weekend) and stayed in a batch with a fire place etc.
Offseason on great barrier is very quiet. You need to check opening days / hours if you want to go out to eat etc.
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