(Part 2)

*Wellington: New Zealand’s capital city has a lot of hills and wind, which can make electric scooter riding challenging but also exciting. Some popular places to ride electric scooters in Wellington are Oriental Bay, Waterfront Promenade, Mount Victoria Lookout, Botanic Garden, and Zealandia.

It also offers many cultural and historical attractions, such as the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand, which showcases the nation's art, history and natural environment. Nearby are the Parliament Buildings, where you can see the iconic Beehive and learn about the country’s political system. To enjoy a panoramic view of the city and harbour, take a cable car to the Botanic Garden, which has a variety of colorful plants and flowers. Fans of The Lord of the Rings can join a tour to see the locations and studios where the movies were filmed.

*Christchurch: The largest city in the South Island is known for its beautiful gardens and parks, such as Hagley Park, the largest urban open space in New Zealand. The city has a lot of green spaces and cycle paths that are ideal for electric scooter riding. Some of the popular places to ride electric scooters in Christchurch are Hagley Park, Avon River Trail, Christchurch Adventure Park, Sumner Beach, and New Brighton Pier. Or try to explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, which has a collection of exotic and native plants, as well as a conservatory and a rose garden. There are wildlife encounters one can visit -- the Orana Wildlife Park, the only place in New Zealand where you can see gorillas, lions, rhinos and other animals. The history and culture of Christchurch can be revisited at the Canterbury Museum featuring exhibits on Maori art, Antarctic exploration and natural history. 

*Dunedin: South Island’s second-largest is famous for its Scottish heritage and Victorian architectureIt’s a city that has a lot of history and culture, which can make electric scooter riding interesting and educational. Some of the popular places to ride electric scooters in Dunedin are Otago Peninsula, Baldwin Street, Dunedin Railway Station, Larnach Castle, and Tunnel BeachBe awed as you admire the Gothic Revival style of the Dunedin Railway Station, one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. And then there’s the Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand that has a rich history and a stunning garden. Nature and wildlife experiences abound at the Otago Peninsula, where one can see albatrosses, penguins, seals and sea lions. For some quiet moments, one can e-scooter along the Tunnel Beach Track, which leads to a secluded beach with a natural tunnel and cliffs. 

*Queenstown: Dubbed as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Dunedin is located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. It is surrounded by green mountains. Teeming with a variety of outdoor activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, skiing, rafting and paragliding, one can opt for a scenic gondola ride to Skyline Queenstown to enjoy a spectacular view of the lake and town, as well as try some luge or zipline rides. More adventure awaits as one explores some of Dunedins’s nearby attractions, the Milford Sound, Glenorchy and Arrowtown. Cap your Dunedin exploit, relaxing. Indulge at some of the wineries in the Gibbston Valley, renowned for its Pinot Noir wines. 

*Napier: The coastal city in the Hawke's Bay region has a lot of art deco and wine, which can make electric scooter riding stylish and enjoyable. Some of the popular places to ride electric scooters in Napier are Marine Parade, Napier Art Deco District, Bluff Hill Lookout, Church Road Winery, and Cape Kidnappers. Renowned for its Art Deco architecture and wine industry, one can stroll along Marine Parade, which is lined with Norfolk Pines and has many landmarks and attractions along the way. One can also shop at the Art Deco Centre, which sells souvenirs and books related to the Art Deco style. For some marine life viewing, there’s the National Aquarium of New Zealand, which has a range of aquatic animals, including sharks, penguins and kiwis. For a bit of wine tasting, one can join a tour to some of the vineyards in Napier or nearby Hastings and Havelock North. 

*Palmerston North: This city that has a lot of parks and museums, which can make electric scooter riding leisurely and educational too. Some of the popular places to ride electric scooters in Palmerston North are Victoria Esplanade Gardens, Manawatu River Pathway, Te Manawa Museum, Palmerston North Square, and Lido Aquatic Centre.

Victoria Esplanade Gardens is a sight for tired, sore eyes. This beautiful park features a rose garden, a conservatory, a playground, a miniature railway, and a bird aviary. One can ride an electric scooter along the paths and enjoy the scenery and the wildlife. And then there’s the nearby Manawatu River Park and the Dugald MacKenzie Garden. 

Manawatu River Pathway is a shared pathway that follows the Manawatu River for about 10 km. Ride an electric scooter on this flat and smooth track to admire the views of the river, the farmland, and the hills and then make a short stop at some of the bridges, parks, and cafes along the way. 

Te Manawa Museum is a museum of art, science, and heritage that showcases the history, culture, and creativity of Palmerston North and its people. Riding an e-scooter, one can go to the museum and explore exhibits on Maori art, local history, natural sciences, innovation, and many more. The city also has interactive activities, workshops, and events that are fun and educational for all ages. 

Palmerston North Square is the central plaza of Palmerston North, featuring a clock tower, a pond, a fountain, a giant chess set, and various statues and monuments. Surrounded by shops, cafes, restaurants, and other public buildings, this is a popular place for socializing, relaxing, and enjoying events and festivals throughout the year. 

Lido Aquatic Centre is an aquatic centre that offers a range of facilities and attractions for visitors. One can explore on an e-scoter the centre with no hurry. Enjoy the pools, slides, diving boards, spa, sauna, steam room, gym, cafe, and more. There are also classes, programmes and other events that are available for different ages and abilities. 

*Nelson: Nelson is a city that has a lot of art and nature, which can make electric scooter riding creative and stimulating. At the Nelson Market, a variety of products from local artisans, farmers, and producers are sold here. Leisurely browse through the stalls that different crafts, jewellery, clothing, pottery, food, flowers, and more – like the delicious and appetizing treats for sale. Music lovers can listen to some live music.

The Centre of New Zealand Monument marks the location of the central survey point in New Zealand in the 1800s. Take time to enjoy the panoramic views of Nelson and Tasman Bay from the top of Botanical Hill. There’s something to learn about the history and significance of this landmark. 

World of Wearable Art Museum (WOW) is a museum that showcases wearable art entries from an international design competition. A quick ride on the e-scooter to the museum will reward the visitor some of the amazing creations that have been displayed on stage in a spectacular show. There’s something new to learn -- about the designers and their inspirations behind their stunning works of art.

(to be continued...)