> WHEN YOU GO

Get there: I flew with American Airlines from Toronto to Auckland with a stopover in L.A. From Auckland, I flew with Barrier Air to the Kaitaia Airport, a five-minute drive from the Sand Safaris office. Get around: I had a rental car from Far North Rentals at Kaitaia. Firsttime left-side drivers can take an online driving quiz to perfect their skills before hitting the road. Stay: I stayed at the expansive Ramada Resort Reia Taipa Beach, a short drive from Cape Reinga. Surf the giant dunes: With the cheerful and insightful guidance of a local guide, visitors to the Northland can enjoy a full day of adventure in the region with tour group Sand Safaris. The daylong trip on an air-conditioned dune rider bus includes stops at Ninety Mile Beach, Cape Reinga, a barbecue lunch at Tapotupotu Bay and an unforgettable sand surfing experience at the Te Paki dunes. Eat: The Mangonui Fish Shop is known far and wide for its locally sourced fish and chips and inspiring variety of dipping sauces. Do your research: newzealand.com, northlandnz.com