Visit the Kauri Coast, New Zealand

The quickest way to drive between Auckland and the Bay of Islands is along the eastern route, but the west coast route, passing through ancient kauri forests and lush rolling farmland, is well worth the extra time.

Waipoua Forest is the most significant remnant of the once extensive forests of Northland, and is home to the oldest remaining kauri trees, one over 2,000 years in age, and many with trunks several meters across.