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Spectacular Spots To Enjoy Autumn Foliage Without Travelling To Arrowtown
Ruth Kuo, journalist
With the sun losing its heat and the mercury falling, New Zealand's thick forests are beginning to turn hues of vivid yellow, orange and red.
The South Island gets most of the plaudits at this time of the year, with iconic sites around Arrowtown, Cromwell and Lake Wanaka frequently topping the lists of recommended places to visit in autumn.
The North Island shouldn't be overlooked, though, with several locations offering spectacular views of autumn foliage that are worth checking out.
Cambridge
Known for its vibrant colours, Cambridge should be an automatic inclusion on any North Island autumn map.
Located just 1½ hours from Auckland, the area around Cambridge Town Hall and Victoria Street gives visitors the opportunity to take a relaxed stroll past cafes, galleries, vintage shops and tree-lined streets bursting with seasonal colour.
You might even turn a corner and find yourself face-to-face with a statue of a magnificent racehorse, a nod to Cambridge's equestrian heritage.
Follow the Township Walks to discover a hidden gem, or explore Albert Street, Duke Street and Te Koutu Park to enjoy some inspirational colour.
Described as a town of "trees and champions", Cambridge will host an autumn festival from 28 March to 6 April - a great time for a visit.
Travel tips
If you visit on a Saturday morning, don't miss the Cambridge Farmers' Market for fresh local produce and hidden treasures.
The town is also famous for its sushi - served with generous slices of sashimi, silky seaweed salad and delicate pickled ginger.
Cambridge truly offers a taste of Asia in the heart of Waikato.
Matakana
Located just an hour north of Auckland, Matakana's autumn charm is irresistible.
Rustic buildings, golden vineyards and idyllic farmland create a peaceful escape infused with the sweet scent of the countryside.
Travel tips
On Saturday mornings, Matakana the Matakana Village Farmers' Market offers everything from locally grown flowers to artisanal mushrooms and honey. Grab a handcrafted burger packed with Matakana bacon.
Located a kilometre northeast of the township, The Green Shed makes for a charming roadside stop. Just pull over, stretch your legs and sample freshly caught Pacific oysters. In winter, the oysters are at their plumpest and most succulent. By spring, they develop a delicate, creamy texture. In autumn, the oysters tend to have a briny tang - as if they've been plucked straight from the ocean minutes earlier.
Centennial Park
In Centennial Park, just outside Rotorua, rolling hills and lush meadows give way to a vibrant tapestry of autumn leaves. Photographers love the park's suspension bridge, while mountain bikers enjoy off-road trails.
Framed by distant hills, the layers of seasonal colors paint a stunning autumn scene. You might encounter grazing sheep along the walking trails, so be sure to close every gate behind you as you pass through.
The region's acidic soil and mild frosts create perfect conditions for stunning autumn foliage of Rotorua. Even trees lining the city streets put on a show.
Travel tips
Soaking in a hot spring on a crisp autumn day is about as good as it gets for many visitors. Several motels in the area have their very own private hot spring tubs.
Some of Rotorua's most beloved eateries closed during the pandemic, but new restaurants have gradually sprung up as the economy recovers.
A number of decent Chinese restaurants operate in town, but two long-standing favourites are worth highlighting: an award-winning pie shop and a legendary fish 'n' chips spot, both run by Chinese owners.
Patrick's Pies has won the best New Zealand pie award an impressive eight times. Its gold-medal pie in 2023 featured a thick, buttery pastry encasing aromatic roast duck, tender mushrooms, caramelised onions and melting cheese, making every bite packed with rich, savoury flavours. The pies are quite large and generously filled - a true Kiwi-meets-Chinese comfort food classic.
Meanwhile, Oppies Fish & Chips has twice been crowned best in New Zealand. Its portions are generous, the oil is always fresh, and the fish is coated in a thin, golden, crispy batter. Add a dash of local vinegar and a sprinkle of salt, and you have a perfect bite - tender, juicy and subtly sweet. Oppies also offers a variety of Chinese dishes, which regulars call "a taste of home."
McLaren Falls Park
Tucked away in Omanawa near Tauranga, McLaren Falls Park is a local treasure. Its lakes, waterfalls and forested trails are dotted with vibrant autumn leaves, and its peaceful picnic spots overlook sparkling water framed by fiery foliage.
Travel tips
Bring your own food for a lakeside barbecue, grilling everything from mushrooms to corn and eggplant. Kids will love Marshalls Animal Park inside the park, with alpacas, rabbits, ponies and more.
If time allows, book an evening glowworm kayaking tour through Mangapapa Canyon for a magical end to your autumn adventure.
Plenty of dining options can be found in Tauranga, which is about 20 minutes' drive. While there, Mount Maunganui is famous for its stunning coastal hiking trails. On sunny days, the ocean sparkles in brilliant shades of blue, offering breathtaking views along the way.
Cornwall Park
At the foot of Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill, Cornwall Park is Auckland's autumn crown jewel.
Boasting 8000 trees and countless flowering plants, the park's golden gingko forest is legendary. In autumn, fallen leaves form a soft golden carpet - perfect for photographers.
Travel tips
The park's barbecue areas fill quickly on weekends, so arrive early to secure a spot close by or bring a ready-made picnic and enjoy the wide-open expansive lawns.
Visitors can explore the park's myriad walking trails or wander through several paddocks, opening and closing wooden gates or climbing over fences - just like a real Kiwi farmer.
Along the way, visitors might encounter cows and sheep and, if they're lucky, guinea fowls, pheasants, wild ducks and other birdlife - a charming reminder that this natural retreat sits right in the heart of New Zealand's largest city.
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