New Zealand's 11 Most Laid-Back Towns

Aotearoa, or New Zealand in English, is an Oceanic island nation that's uniquely suited for relaxing getaways. On the South Island, travellers can escape to a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its dramatic coastal fiords and rainforests. This island also holds a former mining town reinvented as a winter sports destination and a village at the foot of one of the Southern Hemisphere's most famous glaciers. Then on the North Island, folks can savour the bold flavours of celebrated wines. They can also explore a sun-kissed town adorned with ancient Māori carvings and a beach where natural hot springs flow beneath the sand.

If any of these places sounds ideal to you, then go ahead, kick back, and relax as we take a look at New Zealand's 11 Most Laid-Back Towns.

Waikawa

Though the town's name derives from a Māori term for "dark or bitter water," Waikawa makes a refreshing oasis in The Catlins. In town, folks can start on the George Aitken Walk (also known as the Waikawa Walking Track) and do an easy and pleasant stroll by Waikawa Harbour. Meanwhile, to the north, Niagara Falls/Manga Piri is a lovely spot to stretch out and enjoy the Catlins scenery. And for something more dramatic, it's worth the drive up (and bush walk) to Koropuku Falls for the gorgeous waterfall and surrounding forest full of ferns and mosses.

Shifting south of town, Curio Bay Accommodation makes a wonderful place to stay by the shores of Porpoise Bay. Guests can choose from snug beachfront studios or the larger beach house apartment, then step out and take in the dramatic coastal views and spot local wildlife like dolphins, penguins, seals, and sea lions.

Riverton / Aparima

Riverton (or Aparima in Māori) may be the oldest permanent settlement of the Southland, yet this "Riviera of the South" always makes for a refreshing coastal getaway. To get to know more of this town's backstory, visitors can stop at Te Hikoi Museum and learn how Māori indigenous communities and Anglo-European settlers have shaped this area's development for nearly two centuries. For another hearty serving of local history, folks can also check out the Templeton Flax Mill Heritage Museum and tour New Zealand's only authentic flax mill plant that continues to operate at its original site. And for anyone seeking a wilder experience outside, they can head south to Howells Point Reserve and spend the day walking, birdwatching, surf fishing, and surfing.

Returning to town, guests will find a welcoming refuge at La Riviera Guest House, a historic (1860) landmark that now houses two self-contained apartments that open up to the property's zen gardens and are mere steps away from the beautiful Jacobs estuary boardwalk.

Te Anau

In Māori, Te Anau means "place of the swirling waters," and this town really lives up to its name with its striking land and seascapes. For one, Te Anau sits by Fiordland National Park, the UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans across 1.2 million hectares of coastal fiords and inland mountain and rainforest environments. In town, folks can also access Lake Te Anau and enjoy a scenic picnic or a quiet walk by the shore. And for something very different, visitors can do a scenic cruise on the lake to reach Te Anau Glowworm Caves, the famed 12,000 year-old limestone caves full of eye-catching rock formations, an underground waterfall, and a bioluminescent display that must be seen to be believed.

Staying by the lake, Radfords on the Lake shines bright as a five-star boutique motel featuring spacious studios and suites complete with sleek walk-in showers, in-room kitchenettes, extra large smart TVs, bluetooth speakers, and free wireless internet.

Arrowtown / Kā-muriwai

Established during the heady days of the Otago gold rush in 1862, Arrowtown (or Kā-muriwai in Māori) continues to impress with its dazzling natural beauty and seemingly endless opportunities for adventures. During the winter season, skiers and snowboarders come this way to hit the slopes at Coronet Peak Ski Resort, one of the Southern Hemisphere's most accessible ski areas with a well-balanced mix of 38 trails spread across 280 hectares. Even better, Arrowtown is also a short drive away from Cardrona Alpine Resort, a 345-hectare property with 38 trails offering up to 600 metres (or 1,969 feet) in vertical drop. And in case anyone wants something to do beyond the ski slopes, the Lakes District Museum & Gallery stretches across three historic buildings and includes everything from a vintage blacksmith's workshop to a Victorian era schoolhouse and guided gold panning outings.

Though Arrowtown mostly ceased gold mining operations decades ago, the town still abounds in precious landmarks, including the luxurious Millbrook Resort & Country Club. Guests here can expect five-star accommodations with elegant perks like deluxe bathrobes, bathrooms with separate showers and tubs, and en suite coffee and tea. In addition, the resort has their own full-service spa, two 18-hole championship golf courses, and multiple tantalising dining options.

Franz Josef / Waiau

Perched on the South Island's West Coast, Franz Josef / Waiau is home to one of the Southern Alps' most famous glaciers, and that still merely scratches the surface of what this area has to offer. Of course, most travellers come here for Franz Josef Glacier / Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere, the 12 kilometre-long glacier that's viewable via guided heli-hikes, ice climbs, and flyovers. Yet while at Westland Tai Poutini National Park, folks can also hike the Alex Knob Track for some of the best glacier views that don't require a helicopter ride, or do the Terrace Walk for an easier journey into a beautiful local patch of temperate rainforest.

From town, it's a short drive north to Franz Alpine Retreat, a fine spot to enjoy the peace and quiet of the West Coast region. Here, guests can choose from cottages and chalets that are fully stocked with amenities like electric blankets, in-room heating, complete kitchenettes, and flat-screen TVs.

Martinborough / Wharekaka

Shifting up to the North Island, we reach Martinborough (also called Wharekaka and Huangarua in Māori), a relaxed town that showcases some of Aotearoa's most vivacious viticulture. It might seem hard to choose which wineries to visit when exploring the area, yet Poppies Martinborough always makes a solid option for their fine hand-crafted red, white, and rosé wines. Another key highlight is Moy Hall, a sustainably-run winery that specialises in artisan Pinot Noirs and creative farm-to-table fare at their restaurant. And for a little change in scenery, Martinborough Golf Club is the local 18-hole, par-72 course with ample space to tee off in paradise.

To complete the ideal Martinborough getaway, it's worth a stay at Parehua Resort. Set amidst verdant gardens and surrounded by some of the region's finest vineyards, the resort offers well-appointed cottages and villas with open fireplaces and outdoor hot tubs, along with fine wine country cuisine at York Bistro and help with planning destination weddings and other romantic special events.

Havelock North / Karanema

For a different take on New Zealand wines, travellers can head up to Havelock North (or Karanema in Māori) and enjoy a taste of Hawke's Bay. Over at Askerne Estate, guests can soak up some authentic family-style hospitality at this family-owned vineyard that crafts high-quality estate-grown varietals like Chardonnay, Semillon, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Then, for some more natural thrills, explorers can try the hike, bike, or drive to Te Mata Peak, take in the panoramic views of the Hawke's Bay region at the top, and better appreciate this land's special place in local Māori culture. And for a different kind of exploration, Muse is a fascinating gallery that showcases works by a number of talented local artists.

At the north end of town, Mangapapa Hotel, Restaurant & Spa offers the soothing seclusion of a boutique hotel and the exclusive perks of a high-end resort. They offer 12 uniquely designed guest quarters that all come with complimentary wifi and guest parking, along with fine dining at their on-site restaurant, a full menu of treatments available at their Spa Sanctuary, and additional amenities like an outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court, and a sauna.

Wharekahika / Hicks Bay

Heading out to the East Cape of the North Island, we reach Wharekahika (also known as Hicks Bay), a coastal wonderland that abounds in wondrous waterfalls, secluded swimming holes, and so much more. In particular, the nearby Waihirere Waterfall Walk makes a nice spot to stretch out and spot the flowing cascade. Moving over to the coast, Onepoto Bay has a pleasant sandy beach and good waves for swimming and surfing. And a short drive south from the bay leads to East Cape Manuka Cafe, a perfect place to grab some coffee, tea, and special local delights like locally sourced Mānuka honey and Mānuka oil products.

Returning to Hicks Bay, Nga Puriri Bed and Breakfast has a fully self-containted cottage surrounded by native Puriri trees, sporting magnificent ocean views outside, and complete with amenities like a working kitchenette, wifi internet, and Sky TV inside. And yes, a full breakfast is also included.

Whakatāne

Set in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, around 89 kilometres (or 55 miles) north east of Rotorua, Whakatāne is a sun-kissed haven for carefree exploration. At Kōhī Point Scenic Reserve, visitors will encounter expansive ocean views, green forest paths, and a remarkable collection of historic Māori carvings. A little farther north, Coastlands Recreation Reserve has a fantastic white sand beach to go surfing and sunbathing. Then, at the south side of town, Mokorua Bush Scenic Reserve contains land that was cleared for farming early in the 20th century, but later declared public park land and allowed to heal into a high canopy of native trees that support local bird life (including kiwis).

Centrally located near Whakatāne's business district, 37 The Landing Motel offers a convenient location near many of the area's finest attractions, and it makes a comfortable place to stay with sleek and stylish ground-floor units complete with king beds, kitchenettes, air conditioning, and Sky TV.

Hahei

Perched on the Pacific Ocean-facing side of the Coromandel Peninsula, and about 176 kilometres (or 109 miles) east of Auckland, Hahei has some of Aotearoa's most beautiful beaches and easygoing coastal holiday vibes. From town, visitors can do the walk or take a water taxi to Mautohe Cathedral Cove, the famous beach that sports soft white sand, sparkling emerald seawater, and exceptional conditions for snorkelling and diving. Then, to the south, Hot Water Beach is a unique geological phenomenon where naturally heated mineral water lies below the surface, making it possible for visitors to dig their own hot spring pools in the sand during low tide. Even for those wanting to stay in town, Hahei Beach makes a great place for casual seaside strolls and swims.

Anyone wanting another "little slice of heaven" can check into Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort and find a cosy local motel surrounded by subtropical gardens. Even better, the motel is just a four-minute walk from the beach, and all accommodation options include heat pumps and air conditioning, unlimited wifi internet, premium streaming TV, and access to laundry facilities.

Mangōnui

Opening up to the appropriately named Doubtless Bay, Mangōnui is without doubt an inviting launchpad for excellent excursions around New Zealand's Northland coast. Mangōnui Wharf serves as a reminder to the town's backstory as a whaling and trading port, yet it's also a place used now for fishing and casual walks. Heading up to Rangikapiti Pā Historic Reserve, folks will discover a set of pre-colonisation Ngāti Kahu Māori fortifications above and incredible views of the Mangōnui Harbour below. And just to the west of town, Coopers Beach is an inviting golden sand beach with ideal conditions for family-friendly swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking outings.

Returning to the harbour area, The Old Oak Boutique Hotel is a historic (1861) house with a gallery that features a number of works by local artists, plus it houses three sleek suites sporting special touches like plush king beds, high-end bath products, and modern heating and cooling systems.

Go Ahead and Enjoy the Soothing Vibes of These Laid-Back Aotearoa Towns

New Zealand abounds in amazing options for laid-back vacations. Down in The Catlins, Waikawa is a welcoming village surrounded by forests and free-flowing waterfalls. Heading up to the UNESCO-honoured Fiordland National Park, Te Anau has no shortage of dramatic scenery. At Arrowtown, visitors can dig deep into local mining history and ski down its storied slopes. Moving to the North Island, Martinborough is a wine country town that's always growing something good. Farther north, the sun keeps shining on Whakatāne and its ancient wonders, while Hahei sits by some of the finest beaches of the Coromandel.

However one prefers to kick back, relax, and recreate, it's always possible to find the perfect place in Aotearoa.