Getting into nature can offer a wonderful reprieve from life's busyness. Forest bathing has even become quite a thing - don't be daunted it's just a fancy way of saying healthy things happen when we hang out in the bush.
Check out our 'Getting into Nature' series for our top picks, all tried and tested by the Cranfields team.
An easy 15 minute boat ride from Paraparaumu that drops you into another world. Kāpiti Island is predator free, allowing the amazing birdlife to flourish, and provides a neat perspective looking back towards the Kāpiti Coast. The ferry ticket includes an introduction and history of the island. There are a couple of walking options plus the opportunity to stay on the island overnight. Some nice swimming spots too – the water is so blue! It’s a family-owned operation where everyone seems very passionate about their land. One elder was collecting flax one evening. Very authentic and highly recommended.
Sunrise with birdsong
A wandering takahē