What to see and do in New Zealand

The prosperous farming regions of Rangitikei, Manawatu and Tararua, on the coastal plains of the southern central North Island, produce milk, horticultural products and sheep. Rangitikei stretches from the Tasman Sea below Wanganui in the south to the southern part of Tongariro National Park in the north. Located between Taupo and Wellington, the Manawatu's landscape sweeps from the high country Ruahine and Tararua ranges to the coastal plains and beaches of Tangimoana and Himatangi. Tararua, to the east of the Manawatu Gorge, is bounded by the Ruahine and Tararua ranges. Visitors keen to explore these regions will find relaxing country retreats, award-winning gardens, excellent golf courses, antiques and craft stores and historic homes. For the adventurous there's horse trekking, great tramping tracks and trout fishing. And for thrill-seekers there's kayaking and jet-boating through the Manawatu Gorge, aerobatic flying, scenic helicopter flights, mountain biking, a 4WD safari, 4x4 quad bikes, bridge swinging, and Formula Ford single-seater racing.