New Zealand's hidden "utopia" has been uncovered by Lonely Planet.
Waiheke Island - population 8340 - has been named the travel guide's fifth best region to visit in 2016, rating ahead of other popular tourist destinations including Hawaii, German Bavaria and Costa Verde in Brazil.
The second-largest island in the Hauraki Gulf, north of Auckland, is ripe for visitors according to Lonely Planet's marketing director Chris Zeiher.
"The secret is out," he said.
"(Waiheke Island) is a utopia of secret coves, beautiful beaches, rolling vineyards, luxury lodges and bohemian sensibilities."
"In 2016 Waiheke Island is welcoming the world to sample from its abundant offerings and inviting all visitors to fall under its spell."
Romania's Transylvania, the purported home of the vampire Dracula, took out top honours in the publisher's best in travel regions list, followed by West Iceland and Valle de Viales in Cuba.
LONELY PLANET'S TOP 10 REGIONS
1. Transylvania, Romania
2. West Iceland
3. Valle de Viales, Cuba
4. Friuli's wine regions, Italy
5. Waiheke Island, New Zealand
6. The Auvergne, France
7. Hawaii, USA
8. Bavaria, Germany
9. Costa Verde, Brazil
10. St Helena, British Territories
(Source: Lonely Planet)
Share
