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When you take a medical job in New Zealand, it might be a bit overwhelming because there's so much to do. Be sure to stop in Whakatane, a picturesque town situated in the nation's Eastern Bay of Plenty. As one of the sunniest towns in the region, you're likely to spend your entire visit outdoors, diving at White Island, kayaking through Ohiwa Harbour, hiking the Nga Tapuwae o Toi track or stargazing at the Whakatane Observatory.
The region's more than 31 miles (50 km) of coastline means that water activities are a must. You can find dozens of companies nearby that will provide you with the essentials for scuba diving, surfing or jet skiing along the waves.
Make sure you save enough time to follow the Footprints of Toi, otherwise known as the Nga Tapuwae o Toi walkway, through native forests and along the stunning coastline for a trip that lasts about five to seven hours. You can choose smaller portions of the trek and still get a taste of Whakatane as well as a sense of Maori history, passing famous pa sites during your journey.
Don't worry if you can't squeeze in all of the region's adventurous activities—you can always come back for more.