Hosting more than 268,000 visitors from the United States each year and boasting more than 18,000 miles of coastline, New Zealand is a great destination for an active travel expedition.

Start your exploration in New Zealand’s beloved city of Auckland, and travel via ferry or with a kayak tour to the dormant volcanic landmark of Rangitoto Island. Once there, trek the ancient lava flows and take in the harbor views from the summit.

If you’re up for a longer hike, it’s possible to walk across the country in just five hours. Follow the Coast to Coast Walkway on a path that traverses the narrowest stretch of land in New Zealand. You’ll set off from Viaduct Harbour on the east coast, hike west through a variety of landscapes, urban areas and parks, and reach your finish line 9.9 miles later at Manukau Harbour.

Plan a daytrip to Waiheke Island, Auckland’s self-proclaimed island of wine — home to around 30 wineries and a selection of sparkling beaches. A 35-minute ferry journey delivers you there, and you can take a wine tasting tour that includes a vineyard lunch.

Set aside a day to view the world’s largest assemblage of Maori artifacts at the Auckland Museum. The collection ranges in size from a full size marae (meeting house) and canoes to cultural items that can fit in the palm of your hand. Once the sun sets, head to Great Barrier Island to view the stars. The entire island is the first designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary.