Milford Sound

Milford Sound is actually a fiord, having been carved by a glacier. Like the rest of Fiordland, Milford Sound receives a lot of rain. Indeed, some tour operators argue that the sound is best seen on a rainy day as all the waterfalls can be seen in their full glory. Many recommend seeing it during a sunny day and in the rain to see both worlds as they are both very different and amazing Wear rainwear and carry an umbrella to protect photographic equipment.There are several boat operators who offer day cruises. Most guided tours from Te Anau or Queenstown arrive in Milford around noon, so it is advisable to escape the crowds by going on an early-morning or late-afternoon cruise. If you intend to take photographs, the quality of light is usually better around those times as well. While most cruise companies have their last cruise of the day around 3 pm, Mitre Peak Cruises offers 4:30PM cruises, but only if a minimum number of 6 passengers are interested.

Bay of Islands

• Russell - A quick ferry ride across the water from Paihia is the charming, elegant township of Russell. This tranquil place was once known as "the hell hole of the Pacific" when it was the shore leave destination for sailors, whalers and traders in the early 19th century. Today Russell is still a favoured spot for boaties who seek safe anchorage. You will find a wide range of accommodation available and you can also arrange sightseeing, adventure or fishing activity from the Russell waterfront. If you're planning to do any island or bush hiking, be sure to call into the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre. For self-drive explorers, take State Highway 11 to Opua and catch the vehicular ferry to Russell or leave State Highway 1 at Whakapara and travel the fully tar-sealed scenic coastal route via Oakura. There's also a passenger ferry service from Paihia.

• Waitangi - Truly one of New Zealand's most historic sites, being the place where Maori and European joined in signing the Treaty of Waitangi on 2 February 1840. Here the Treaty was signed by the representatives of the English Crown and a small number of Maori chiefs. Then the Treaty was circulated around New Zealand and further Maori chiefs added their signatures to it. The largest signing by chiefs took place at the Mangungu Mission House in Horeke on 12 February 1840. Not all tribes signed the Treaty!