International Travel – On the Loose Live

Founded in 1887 and officially established in 1894, Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park and the 4th in the world. It is a dual UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for both its outstanding natural volcanic features, including 3 active volcanoes: Mt. Ruapehu, Mt. Ngauruhoe, and Mt. Tongariro, and its cultural significance to the native Māori people.

Tawhai Falls Distance: < .50 Mile (Ranking 6th of the Top Hikes in Tongariro National Park per AllTrails.)

Up for a tame, super short stroll to a lovely waterfall? Tawhai Falls won’t disappoint. It’s an easy walk through the forest on a smooth trail to see the gorgeous, rushing, crystal-clear, turquoise waters of this 42-foot-high waterfall. You can take in the views from the top viewing platform and then follow the water’s journey to the base of the falls.

Getting to Tawhai Falls: It’s right off the SH48, about 2.5 miles below Whakapapa Village. Look for the large sign.

Taranaki Falls Distance: 3.73 Miles (The #2 Top Hike in the Park per AllTrails.)

Another tame and short walk to a waterfall is Taranaki Falls. Here, you’ll walk through the tussock (a golden, coppery red ornamental grass that is native to New Zealand) and alpine shrublands, enjoying expansive views of mountains and the beech forest, until you come to the star of the show— the dramatic 65 ft Taranaki Falls tumble down from top of the volcanic cliffs (formed by the Ruapehu eruption of 15,000 years ago) to a natural, boulder-ringed pool below.

In my opinion, this loop is most scenic clockwise, with the reward of rounding a corner for the big reveal (versus the anticlimax of seeing the comparatively anticlimactic top of the falls first). From the falls, the track climbs up to loop back, or you can continue your hike on the Tama Lakes Track (post to come).

Getting there: The trail starts from the road about 100 yards below the Whakapapa Visitor Centre.

Happy Trails and Waterfall Chasing!

A short 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, with its coastal charm and vineyard vistas, Waiheke Island feels like a world apart. With 36 miles of coastline, internationally acclaimed wineries, sun-drenched olive groves, award-winning restaurants, stylish boutiques, and vibrant art galleries, this island escape is the perfect blend of relaxation and refinement.

Arrive in Oneroa, a lively, yet laid-back charming village that’s ideal for wandering on foot. From here, you can create your own Island experience by taking the Hop-on Hop Off Bus, or simply strolling from winery to winery and shop to gallery. For nature immersion, there’s ziplining above the treetops and extended coastal walks. If you’d like to get more of the lay of the land, you can rent motor scooters, ebikes, or a car on the island. In favorable weather, the beaches may beckon you for a swim, kayak, stand-up paddle, or for a sunny snooze.

Here, the fresh flavors of New Zealand come alive awakening the appetite and tantalizing the taste buds. Oenophiles and food lovers alike will delight in discovering the region’s remarkable wines and vibrant culinary scene. Some may wonder how the wineries and cuisine compare to California’s renowned Napa and Sonoma wine regions. In my opinion, Oneroa’s wineries and their scenic coastal setting rival (dare I say, surpass) them. But of course, you’ll have to decide for yourself.

Whether you’re seeking a memorable day trip or a relaxed weekend escape, the charming never-never land of Oneroa is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, the day, or a couple of days. For me it was an idyllic spot i to let the haze of the long flight gently dissolve before “winding up” for the New Zealand adventures to come. The vibe is relaxed yet sophisticated, encouraging you to slow down, savor the moment and the flavors, and soak up the best of island life. Stay tuned for the adventure posts – teaser alert – world-class hiking!!!