Norse Atlantic Airways reviews: Is It Worth To Book One In 2025? 

BY  Arnab Aug 16, 2023

People often walk by five-star establishments when they are on their vacation and they never think to themselves that this could be the right kind of accommodation choice for them. They wrongfully think that it is outside their budget and so they continue to enjoy a lesser holiday experience when it comes to where they stay for the duration of their holiday time. What many people don’t seem to realize is that when you stay in five-star accommodation, you get to experience something that you have never tried before and in many cases, you end up saving yourself money because of all of the amenities that are offered to you. There are a number of luxury 5-star resorts in the Maldives that you really do need to check out this year because maybe it’s time to take your holiday experience to a completely new level so that you can enjoy the many benefits that can be enjoyed when staying in such accommodation. You also need to take into consideration that you haven’t traveled in some time due to the pandemic and so there is a lot of money burning a hole in your pocket that needs to be spent. Appearance is everything - We all know that providing the best first impression every single time is incredibly important in business and in our day-to-day social lives. This is why these resorts take first impressions very seriously indeed and you will notice many beautiful designs when you arrive from the reception area where you are greeted with a cocktail to the many areas around the resort itself. Exceptional service is provided - The service that you receive at a luxury resort is something that you have never experienced before and the staff there is highly qualified in order to be able to provide you with personal care. It’s likely that you will receive a welcome drink on your arrival and maybe even a complimentary bottle of wine in your room. There will always be someone close by to provide you with any food and beverages that you and your family might want. They provide amazing beds - Part of going on your yearly vacation away from your job is so that you can properly relax and get the best night’s sleep that you’ve ever had. These resorts invest heavily in their beds and many have commented that they are like sleeping on a cloud. You may find it difficult to pull yourself out of the bed the following morning because it is so comfortable and when you do, you get to enjoy a delicious coconut drink. Every possible item that you could possibly need will be there for you and all resorts come with free Wi-Fi that is provided throughout the grounds and big screen TVs in the rooms to keep the kids happy. All of the toiletries that you need in the bathroom will already be there for you and there will be a number of restaurants and bars for you to enjoy. There is a lot more to a five-star experience in a top-quality resort. Read Also: Why A Hotel Is The Right Choice For Your Accommodation Find Your Dream Membership With A Cost-Saving DVC Resale This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do!

BY  Mashum Apr 13, 2022

  Are you in a condition to switch companies very soon?? Have you got your dream job and there is still a few weeks left for your joining?? Are you the one who is just not willing to work anymore and planning for an escape?? Well, then this article is for you people! In the present competitive world, many people do not even get a chance to discover a traveler in themselves. Most of them die at the age of 25 and exist till the age of 65 to 70.  You know, we all have a traveler in ourselves!! Really! I am not kidding. You have a soul that always wishes to explore the world. It is just things like environment, responsibilities, and discipline that keep you back in the trap. You fail most of the time planning for your dream trip for life. Well, no more negative vibes guys!! It is time to break some conventional rules of life and invest in something for the betterment of your soul. You can take a step that most travelers would hesitate to. Okay! nothing so risky but you can plan for a mid-year trip. Say cheers to breaking rules, pure ecstasy, life, and plan for your dream trip in June. Here, I have come up with ten magnificent destinations that you can consider the best places to travel to in June. Top Ten Places To Travel In June 2022 You Can Plan For Here is the list of the ten most alluring destinations in the world that you can visit in June. So, choose one from the list and give your friends a chance to envy you. 1. Luangwa Valley, Zambia   Overview: Zambia is a small country in central Africa but has many things to gift to tourists. Here you can check out the rugged landscape and some outstanding locations for a mid-year vacation in June. The weather in the Luangwa Valley remains dry and you can explore the grassland and easily spot the wild animals. Moreover, you can enjoy the heavenly sight of Victoria Falls. While not many travelers always head to the Luangwa Valley (National Park), you can visit this place solo or on a friends’ trip. So, you would always have the fondle memories of visiting an off-beat destination. Reaching Up: By Air: Nonstop flights from New York to Lusaka are available regularly. You can reach the Luawanga Valley by car from the airport. Important Activities: Go for the jungle safari in the National Park. Visit the Victoria Falls both day and night. Observe and enjoy the local lifestyle. Dishes to Try: Nshima., Ifinkubala, Dry Fish Read More: How To Choose A Travel Pillow For Kids 2. Paris, France   Overview: France experiences an enjoyable summer in June. So, Paris, one of the best romantic destinations has backed a place in this list of best places to travel in June 2021. Even, you can consider the same situation in the current year.  You can best enjoy Paris with your partner. Generally, travelers do not pick up this place to go solo. Apart from the Iconic Eiffel Tower, you can explore a lot of museums and majestic buildings with European Architecture. Moreover, there is an exciting nightlife in Paris that gives you a chance to drink, sing, dance, and have fun with your partner. Reaching Up: By Air: There are direct flights from the US conducted by many Airlines to the Charles de Gaulle and the Orly Airport. Important Activities: Indulge in city sightseeing. Spend some time adjacent to the Eiffel Tower and click photographs with your partner. Try to explore the glittering nightlife of Paris. Dishes to Try: Macarons, Steak Tartare, Croissants. 3. Prague, Czech Republic   Overview: Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic. It is one of the picturesque cities in the country and the hub of classic European culture. You can come across many artists sitting and performing their artforms in the city joints. Apart from the Charles Bridge and Lennon Wall, you can explore more in Prague while a solo, couple, or group visit. Moreover, you can consider this as the best place to travel to in June as there are a lot of festivals taking place in the city. A four to five days trip to Prague in June can remain in your memory for a lifetime. Reaching Up: By Air: Both direct flights and connecting flights are available from the US. In the case of the one-stop flights, you can stopover in London. Important Activities: Explore the major tourist locations of Prague. Enjoy the local music and dance of Czech culture in any of the city joints. Be a part of the microbrewery bonanza and the biggest ice-cream festival. Dishes to Try: Koleno, Czech roast duck, Utopenci. 4. East Coast, Sri Lanka   Overview: The South Asian countries receive decent rainfall due to the active monsoon winds from June to September. Now, the East Coast region is different. It receives a little rainfall and you can find a lot of sunshine here.  As you visit the East Coast region in Sri Lanka, do not skip the Kumana National Park. Here, you can expect to have fun spotting crocodiles, elephants, and leopards. So, you can always consider the Pearl of The Indian Ocean to welcome you graciously as you choose it to be the best place to travel in June 2022. Reaching Up: By Air: A lot of indirect flights are available to the Colombo International Airport from the US. Afterward, you can take a car and reach Arugam Bay and The Kumana. Important Activities: Indulge in surfing at the Arugam Bay. Spend a lot of leisure time at the beach. Explore the Kumana National Park to spot wild animals. Dishes to Try: Fish Ambul Thiyal, Kukul Mas Currey, Kottu, Parippu. 5. Copenhagen, Denmark   Overview: If you are sitting back at your place in the US and thinking of a place to escape, choose Copenhagen. The weather in Copenhagen in June remains the best and you can enjoy a solo or a friend’s trip to the edge. This city in Denmark has got the fame to be the most stylish on the entire continent. As a result, you can consider it one of the best places to travel in June. If you are a music lover apart from a traveler, you would remember Copenhagen forever as a fondling city. As it is midsummer in Copenhagen during June, a lot of bands perform at the festivals. So, you can have to listen to them. Moreover, if you have proper knowledge about music, you can even interact with the musicians. Reaching Up: By Air: Direct flights to Copenhagen are available from Newark, Boston, Chicago O’Hare, Philadelphia, etc. Important Activities: Check out the Royal Castles of the city. Visit a few Danish Museums to feel the whispers of the past. Spend some time at the Den Bia Planet. Check out the Roskilde Cathedral. Dishes to Try: Pizza, Danish hotdogs, Sushi. 6. Tel Aviv, Israel   Overview: If you are a daredevil traveler desiring to go to an off-beat place in June, Tel Aviv can be the best destination for you. You can be in the city in June to witness the massive pride march. At times, the pride march reaches a strength of 250,000. This year, you can expect that the march would again take place as it occurred in the pre-Covid era. So, if you have a positive outlook on the pride of the LGBTQ+ community, it is the right place where you should be. You would be amazed to check out that the pride takes the formation of a festival. You can enjoy the music of the DJ and even taste snacks and food while the pride march takes place.  Reaching Up: By Air: You can get a direct flight to Tel Aviv from the NYC International Airport. Otherwise, you can break the journey from London with a Virgin Atlantic flight. Important Activities: Explore the city of Tel Aviv on foot. Be a part of the Pride March. Enjoy the music and have a good time. Taste the local cuisine. Dishes to Try: Falafel, Shakshouka, Schnitzel. You May Also Like To Read This: Top 10 Best Travel Sites For Tour In 2022 7. Manchester, England   Overview: England is a country that attracts tourists and travelers from all over the world in the peak seasons. You can choose June to visit Manchester as the weather does not remain quite cloudy this time. When in Manchester, you can explore the city and spend a few minutes in each location to admire them. Lately, Manchester has turned into the Hipster heaven and you can observe how the lifestyle and culture have changed among the young Brits. Another thing you need to remember is June 19th is Manchester Day and you can witness a grand parade and celebration. Reaching Up: By Air: Virgin Atlantics is the best airline that operates flights to London from different airports in the USA.  Important Activities: In Manchester, you can visit a lot of locations that attract tourists. Never forget to watch a football match at any of the stadiums in Manchester. Witness the People’s History Museum. Dishes to Try: Black pudding, Pastry Bram, Vimto. 8. Berlin, Germany   Overview: Berlin is a city with living history. So, if you are a travel freak who knows it, why not reach out to the place and witness it? Well, you can get a lot of things to do in Berlin. It homes some of the most outstanding museums in the world. You can be a part of a good, peaceful city. In Berlin, you can check out the theaters and even witness a show occurring in any one of them.  Another thing that you should not miss doing is listening to the whispers of World War II. There is a bunker where you can witness and spend some time looking back at the tough days of the country. Reaching Up: By Air: Berlin is now easy to reach as the new airport has opened up in the city for two years now. You can find direct flights of Lufthansa here. You can also land in Newark and reach Berlin. Important Activities: Explore the entire city on foot or some public vehicle. Check out the grandeu of Bode and Neuse Museum. Do not miss watching the Sammlung Boros Bunker. Dishes to Try: CurryWurst, Schnitzel, Eisbein. 9. Seattle, USA   Overview: The state of Seattle, USA can anytime be one of the best places to travel in June 2021 USA. So, you can always pick this place for the trip. Alluring weather is the primary thing that you can expect in the state during June. Do not think Seattle to be one of the best places to travel in April as you can miss the Fremont Solstice Parade. As a result, you would not find anything to enjoy in this state if you visit it other than June. This is obviously a place for travelers who are reluctant to make a huge plan for the mid-year trip. Moreover, you can choose it if you have time and money constraints. Reaching Up: By Air: You can leach Seattle by Air as there are regular domestic flights. By Road: Seattle is connected to all other states in the country with a rich network of highways. Important Activities: Spend some quality time in Pioneer Square. Get to the top of the Space Needle. Indulge in shopping at the Pike Place Market. Dishes to Try: Seafood, Burger, Fried Chicken. 10. Zadar- Dalmatia, Croatia   Overview: As a traveler who loves visiting known places in off-beat times, you can visit Zadar, Croatia. You would get the best view of the Croatian coast while a trip in June. The best you can do is spend most of your time in the city of Dalmatia. You can expect the city to welcome you with all her heart. Expect the love to show up in nature. Reaching Up: By Air: There are regular flights to Croatia from different airports in the US. Important Activities: Spend time sightseeing in Dalmatia. Explore the coast of Croatia. Have a good time chugging some beer. Dishes to Try: Peka, Pasta. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. Where Should I Vacation In Summer 2022? Any hill station would be the best place to go on a vacation in the summer of 2022. Q2. What Is The Best Country To Visit In 2022? Australia is the best country to visit in 2022. Q3. Which Country Is Best To Visit In June? Croatia can be the best country to visit in June. Q4. Where Is The Best Weather In June? Seattle has the best weather in June. Final Words So, these are some places that you can travel to in June this year. Well, if you have started planning for the trip from now on, it is the best step you have taken. Select a destination and purchase tickets to reach the place. Moreover, you can book the hotels according to your affordability too. Always remember that with all planning done, you can expect an outstanding tour. It would also remain in your heart as a long-cherished memory. Read Also: Top 5 Travel Tips For Your Next Trip To China 9 Things Every Traveler Should Know When Visiting Shanghai

BY  Sibashree Nov 7, 2025

Hiking the Aotea Track up to the summit view of the Hirakimata Peak was one of the most rewarding experiences I had on the Great Barrier Island. The view after reaching the top took all our fatigue away.  However, the Great Barrier hiking trails are not just about panoramic summits. Hiking here also means walking along the rugged coastline, through the native forests, and to the geothermal springs. To cut a long story short, the best hikes on Aotea Great Barrier Island, New Zealand are the best routes for exploring its dramatic island.  Furthermore, you can be a beginner or a seasoned hiker. Great Barrier Island has trails that can accommodate all. So, this guide is about the trails you can explore for the perfect eco adventure. Why Is The Great Barrier Island A Hiker’s Paradise?  Cultural exploration, stargazing, off-grid living, exploring the biodiversity of the island, and the dramatic geothermal features make the Great Barrier Island a hiker’s paradise.  1. Dark Sky Sanctuary “Ecotourism is extremely important to Great Barrier Island and this International Dark Sky Sanctuary status will not only provide further tourism development and economic growth opportunities but also ensure the preservation of our exceptional starry skies." Izzy Fordham, Great Barrier Local Board Chair.  The designation of the Great Barrier Island as a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017 was not about getting a label to boost tourism. The island’s 60% area is a conservation park, and the local Maori people believe that the protection of the sky is important for the health and well-being of the local community.  Also, if New Zealand becomes a Dark Sky Nation, as aimed by the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand, the Great Barrier Island will have a pivotal role to play.  Nevertheless, as an activity, stargazing seems the most surreal experience during a multi-day hike on the Aotea track. Just relax and prepare for the next day after completing your day’s hike.  2. Off-Grid Living Sustainability is a choice or a way of living on the Great Barrier Island. So, there is complete reliance on solar power, and people here use composting toilets. Rainwater harvesting is another sustainable practice followed by the people of this island.  Nevertheless, thanks to the island's off-grid living, it has minimal to no light pollution and air pollution. Also, because of off-grid living, life on Great Barrier Island is deeply connected to nature. So, you can be the biggest homebody, but here you will feel the urge to experience the outdoors more intimately.  3. Biodiversity Of The Island “Great Barrier is at an exciting point in its history where the future of the islands flora and fauna looks bright.” - Go Great Barrier Island. The fact that 60% of the island is a conservation park speaks volumes about the island’s biodiversity. Furthermore, it is home to countless endangered species, including 13 species of lizards, the North Island Kaka Parrot, the Black Petrel, the Banded Rail, and the Pateke.  In addition, the native forest here is getting replenished quickly with the island authority being particular about pest control.  4. Geothermal Features Located within the Hauraki Rift, the Great Barrier Island has the Taupō Volcanic Zone and the Kaitoke Hot Springs. These geothermal zones, along with being natural spectacles, are also home to unique ecosystems where you will find New Zealand pigeon or kererū, fernbird, etc.  So, hiking through these geothermal zones is an exciting outdoor activity in the Aotea Great Barrier Island.  A Brief Comparison Table Of The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails  Trail NameDurationDifficultyHighlightsAccessibilityAotea Track2–3 daysModerateForest, summit, hutsDOC huts, remoteKaitoke Hot Springs1.5 hrsEasyGeothermal poolsWheelchair-friendlyWindy Canyon1 hrModerateCliffs, panoramic viewsCar park accessHarataonga Coastal Walk4 hrsModerateBeach, forest, birdsTrailhead parkingPalmers Track2–3 hoursModerateStream crossings, dense bushNot recommended for people with fitness or mobility issuesWarren’s Track30–45 minutesEasyFamily-friendly loop near Tryphena, Kid-friendlyIt is not wheelchair-accessible. Whangaparaoa Beach Walk1–2 hoursEasyDune ecology, remote beachIt is not wheelchair-accessible due to a steep loop-walk area. Glenfern Sanctuary1–2 hrsEasyConservation, native birdsGuided tours available What Are The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails? (Brief Overview) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aotea Great Barrier Island (@greatbarrierislandofficial) Most of the hiking trails on the Great Barrier Island come with an easy to moderate difficulty level. Also, the Aotea track here is the only multi-day hiking trail on Great Barrier Island and the entire Auckland Region.  Let’s find out more about the Aotea track and other Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  1. Aotea Track (Multi-Day Circuit) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kristina | New Zealand travel, hiking & outdoors (@kristinamonts) Aotea track allows you to experience the ultimate fusion of history and natural beauty. Here, you will find the surviving trees and a unique wildlife of Kahikatea, Rimu, and Kauri.  The plants you will come across here are the cabbage tree, Horoeka or lancewood, Mānuka, Kānuka, etc. Furthermore, you will spot birds like Riroriro (Grey Warbler), Kererū (Wood Pigeon), etc.  2. Mount Hobson / Hirakimata Summit Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Walking Legends Guided Walks (@walkinglegendsnz) This hiking route allows an encounter with the remnants of the ancient native bush, such as lancewood and cabbage tree. Also, while walking, you can meet the endangered Chevron Skink, a symbol of the rich biodiversity of the Great Barrier Island. 3. Kaitoke Hot Springs Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Auckland, New Zealand (@visitauckland) This easy hiking track continues along the Kaitoke Swamp to the Kaitoke Hot Springs. You can continue your walk and continue on the Peach Tree Track to reach the Hirakimatā peak.  Kererū or wood pigeon and Kōtare or kingfisher are the most popular birds here.  4. Windy Canyon Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Auckland, New Zealand (@visitauckland) The Windy Canyon track is one of the most popular short hiking trails on the Great Barrier Island. You have to climb up the steps through rock walls, which look dramatic thanks to the rampage of the ancient force of nature.  As you reach the top of the canyon, you will see the wonderful views of the Okiwi Basin, Whangapoua Beach, Medlands Beaches, and Kaitoke.  5. Palmers Track After completing the Windy Canyon Track hike, you can continue on the Palmers Track. Here you will walk along the steep ridgeline, and it is the shortest route to Mount Hobson.  Furthermore, on your way, you will spot the endemic kānuka plants, and the wooden horse here is a telltale of the logging history of the island.  6. Harataonga Coastal Walk It is one of the easiest hiking trails in Harataonga. It is associated with the history of transportation on the island, as it used to be the connecting route between the northern and southern parts of the island.  7. Warren’s Track It is a beautiful hike to a waterfall with a gently graded climb. Once you reach the waterfall, you can take a swim in the stream beneath. The food passes through the Kauri plantation before it joins the Bridle Track.  Here, you will walk through an exotic forest. However, the last lap of the trek is a little difficult with a rocky surface.  8. Whangaparaoa Beach Walk View this post on Instagram A post shared by Working In New Zealand (@workinginnewzealand) This peaceful route takes us to the Stanmore Bay Beach through the Rata Road walkway. Most of the walk continues on a paved road. However, some sections have a boardwalk and gravel.  This road is ideal for a pram walk. However, the stretch between the Rata Road Reserve and Whangaparāoa town centre is steep enough, and you will have to cross a few roads.  9. Glenfern Sanctuary Walks View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glenfern Sanctuary (@glenfernsanctuary) The Glenfern Sanctuary is a family-friendly loop track that continues along the Aotea Stream. You have to walk through a stretch of regenerating bush and climb around 100 meters.  After climbing up, you will enjoy the most amazing views of the Hauraki Gulf. On the stretch, you will be able to spot black petrel and kaka nesting. Also, you will find here the Chevron skink, the rarest and largest reptile in New Zealand.  How To Reach The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nicole Marinkovich (@nicoolemarinkovich) You will have to take a Great Barrier Flight or a ferry ride to reach the Great Barrier Island. Upon reaching the island, you will have to take local transport to reach the following trail heads.  Great Barrier Island Hiking TrailsTrail HeadAotea TrackWindy Canyon/Whangaparapara RoadMount Hobson / Hirakimata Summit TrackBrownlee AvenueKaitoke Hot Springs TrackWhangaparapara RoadWindy Canyon TrackOkiwi-Claris RoadPalmers TrackWindy CanyonHarataonga Coastal WalkHarataonga CampsiteWarren’s TrackOpposite the Akapoua Campground EntranceWhangaparaoa Beach Walk1.5 Km up from Okiwi AirfieldGlenfern Sanctuary Walks20 Glenfern Road What Are The Best Family-Friendly Trails On Great Barrier Island? Best for Seniors• Kaitoke Hot Springs• Glenfern SanctuaryBest for Kids• Warren’s Track• Harataonga Beach WalkFacilities• Toilets at Major Trailheads• Picnic Areas• DOC Signage What Is The Best Time For The Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julia Cole (@juliagoesglobal) The hiking trails of the Great Barrier Island are ideal for all-season hiking. However, the hiking trails offer a unique experience in each season.  SeasonWhy Visit The Hiking Trails?Summer (December to February)• Pleasant Weather Conditions• Clear VisibilityAutumn (March to May)• Cooler Temperature• Fewer CrowdsWinter (June to August)• Wet and Muddy• Fewer CrowdsSpring (September to November)• Active Birdlife• Blooming Flora Sustainable Hiking Tips For The Trails On Great Barrier Island Leave No Trace Use Cleaning Stations for Kauri Dieback (A Deadly Disease of Local Kauri Trees) Prevention Use Bio-Degradable Soap Use Reusable Water Bottles Follow Local Guidance and Signage to Remain Respectful to Wildlife and Sacred Sites What To Pack For Hiking The Best Trails On The Great Barrier Island?  Your packing list will depend on whether you are going for a single-day hike or a multi-day hike.  Day Hike EssentialsMulti-Day Gear• Water (2L+)• Snacks• Sunscreen & hat• Rain jacket• Map or GPS• Sleeping Bag• Cooking Gear• First Aid Kit• Headlamp• Extra Layers Guided Hikes And Local Tours: Enhancing Your Hiking Experience On The Great Barrier Island  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glenfern Sanctuary (@glenfernsanctuary) Glenfern Sanctuary Tours and Māori Cultural Tours are the two most popular guided tours on the Great Barrier Island.  1. Glenfern Sanctuary Tours The Guided Loop Track tour of Glenfern Sanctuary is an amazing experience as you walk through the native bush. Here, you will spot the magnificent kauri tree and the resident black petrel.  The tour is 1 hour and 30 minutes, and a group must have at least five members. The tour's charges are $50 per person.  2. Māori Cultural Tours Whangaparapara Harbour Historic Treks, Harataonga, and Aotea Track are some of the best hiking trails to learn about authentic Māori culture and tradition.  The Whangaparapara Harbour Historic Treks take you to places of Kauri logging and whaling in ancient times. On the other hand, at the Harataonga DOC Campsite, you will find the old settlement sites of the Māori tribe.  Moreover, the Aotea Track has Māori archaeological sites, and Hirakimata Peak itself reflects local Māori spiritual beliefs and significance.  Where To Stay Near The Best Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails?  DOC huts, eco-lodges, hostels, and camping are the best accommodation options near the best Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  Trail NameNearby AccomodationAotea Track• Mt. Heale DOC Hut• Kaiaraara DOC HutKaitoke Hot Springs• Barrier Beach Cottage• Wiltshire ManorWindy Canyon• Aotea LodgeHarataonga Coastal Walk• Tipi and Bob's Waterfront LodgePalmers Track• Tipi and Bob's Waterfront LodgeWarren’s Track• Medlands Beach Backpackers and VillasWhangapoua Beach Walk• Aotea LodgeGlenfern Sanctuary• Glenfern Sanctuary Things You Don’t Know About The Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails: (Unearthing The Secrets) From housing, the only multi-day hike in Auckland, to being the home to many endangered species, the Great Barrier Island has many secrets to share.  1. Aotea Track: The Only Multi-Day Hike On The Island The 25–30 km loop of the Aotea Track is the only multi-day hiking track in the Auckland region. It passes through volcanic terrain, native bush, and summit views.  It’s a rare wilderness experience so close to a major city.  2. You Can Rejuvenate And Soak In Hot Springs In The Middle Of A Hike As you walk through the Kaitoke Hot Springs track, you will find geothermal pools, offering you a natural spa experience.  These pools, hidden in bushes and set in an underdeveloped setting, offer the purest connection to nature.  3. The Summit Of Mt Hobson Is A Breeding Ground For An Endangered Seabird Black petrel (tāiko) is one of the rarest seabirds of New Zealand. Hirakimatā / Mt Hobson is the home ground of these birds.  So, hikers have to continue on the boardwalks to protect the nesting areas of the birds.  4. The Island Is Free Of Possums, Stoats, And Deer Because the Great Barrier Island is free of Possums, Stoats, And Deer, you will be able to spot more birds such as kākā, kākāriki, and pāteke, and different types of wildlife.  5. You Can Hike Along Historic Logging Tramlines Some parts of the Aotea Track pass through the old tramlines used during the kauri logging era. In these pockets, you will find the ruins of machinery and dams that were used in carrying the logs.  6. The Island’s Trails Pass Through Regenerating Forests Much of the forest you hike through is regrowth from early 20th-century logging, dominated by manuka and kanuka, with pockets of ancient kauri, rimu, and kahikatea still surviving. 7. There’s a Track Named After A Gold Prospecting Legend The Te Ahumata Track to the White Cliffs was a popular site of gold prospecting. The locals still believe that gold may be hidden in the mountain. Thus, the hike has an element of myth.  8. The Island Has A Rare Endemic Plant: The Great Barrier Tree Daisy On many trails of the Great Barrier Island, especially on the Mt Heale Hut route, you will find the endemic species of the Great Barrier Tree Daisy.  This plant grows nowhere else in the world.  9. You Can Build Your Own Loop Adventure You can customize your Aotea Track hiking route based on your interests and fitness level. It has feeder tracks such as: Palmers Track Peach Tree Track Tramline Track 10. The Island’s Māori Name Means “Light Striking the Cliff” The Great Barrier Island has geological and spiritual significance in the Māori tradition. Mount Hobson is called Hirakimatā in the Māori language.  It means the “lightning striking the cliff face.” Great Barrier Island Hiking Trails: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Great Barrier Island hiking trails.  1. Do I Need A Permit To Hike On The Great Barrier Island? No, if you are on a day trek on any Great Barrier Island trail, you do not need a permit. However, if you are trekking the Aotea Trail, you will need to book the huts of the Department of Conservation well in advance. You can contact the booking office at +64 7 867 9080 or the DOC Customer Service Centre at 0800 275 362. The last time I checked, the huts were under maintenance. So, confirm the availability of these huts.  2. Is It Safe To Hike Solo On Great Barrier Island? Yes, hiking solo is safe on the Great Barrier Island trails. However, the trails are in remote locations, and mobile coverage is limited in these areas. So, you must keep someone informed about your hike, and carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and an offline map.  3. Are Dogs Allowed On Hiking Trails? No, dogs and pets are not allowed on the hiking trails on Great Barrier Island. The trails here are ideal for wildlife spotting. So, dogs are not allowed on these tracks to protect native wildlife. In addition, dogs are not allowed on these trails to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease. 4. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island From Auckland? Taking a flight is the easiest option to reach the Great Barrier Island from Auckland. Barrier Air operates this flight service from the Auckland Domestic Terminal to the Claris Airport. Also, you can take a Sealink ferry from Auckland’s Wynyard Wharf to Tryphena. It is an unforgettable journey of 4.5 hours.