On the North Island there are many excellent surf destinations, most notably Raglan in the middle of the western shore. From there it is a 3-4 hour drive to Mt Ruapehu in the middle of the island.

The South Island is home to Lake Wanaka, which has multiple areas and the largest heli-skiing region outside of North America. Or, if you’re willing to venture a bit further south, there is more skiing to be had at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak. From Wanaka it is only 3 hours to the varied and challenging surf at Dunedin on the east coast, or as little as an hour and a half down to waves on the west coast. Be warned though, the South Island’s water is chilly.