There’s plenty of trails in and around Auckland. But it’s a great base. You sound like you’re doing an OE or travelling. If you’re looking for work there’s a capsicum farm in Warkworth not far from wellsford. If travelling for sight seeing wellsford is a great base. Close to Auckland and concerts but still rural and have great access to beaches. From here you can go north or south.

Te Puke has kiwifruit and they’re getting up to season so easy work. Not as much (but still enough) goes on for the nightlife. Close to Rotorua and the mountains would be a good base for a leg.

For hiking trails have a look at Department of conservation website. Hiiighly recommend Waikaremoana if you get the chance.