Originally published on Lonely Planet.

Scenic, versatile and beautifully understated – if New Zealand is on your travel radar, consider putting the Bay of Plenty on your wish list. It was named by James Cook when he anchored in the country in 1769, and it’s a name that still rings true today. Anyone who visits will find the great outdoors right upon their doorstep, in the forms of wild swimming holes, surf beaches and hiking trails. The Bay of Plenty offers a lifestyle so well-rounded, you may struggle to say goodbye.

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