Overview

Northland, often called “the Winterless North,” is a subtropical paradise where Māori culture, coastal beauty, and ancient forests meet. Stretching from just north of Auckland to the northern tip of New Zealand at Cape Reinga, the region is known for its pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and rich spiritual significance. With its warm climate and laid-back lifestyle, Northland is a must-visit for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.

  • Main Centres: Whangārei (largest city), Kerikeri, Paihia, Dargaville, Kaitaia
  • Population: ~200,000 (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) UTC+12 / NZDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Subtropical – warm, humid summers and mild winters

Top Destinations in Northland

Bay of Islands

A stunning coastal area with over 140 islands, known for sailing, dolphin cruises, and Māori heritage.

Cape Reinga

The northernmost accessible point in New Zealand, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean — a spiritually significant place in Māori tradition.

Waipoua Forest

Home to some of the largest and oldest Kauri trees in the world, including Tāne Mahuta — the “Lord of the Forest.”

Kerikeri

A charming town with waterfalls, orchards, art galleries, and historic sites like the Stone Store.

Whangārei

The region’s hub, featuring an evolving art scene, scenic marina, and gateway to Northland adventures.

Must-See Attractions

  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds – The birthplace of modern New Zealand, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840
  • Tāne Mahuta – The largest living Kauri tree, estimated to be over 2,000 years old
  • 90 Mile Beach – A stunning stretch of sand ideal for driving tours, sandboarding, and sunsets
  • Haruru Falls – A scenic, horseshoe-shaped waterfall near Paihia
  • Cape Reinga Lighthouse – Overlooking the meeting of two oceans and sacred to Māori tradition

Things to Do

  • Sail or cruise the Bay of Islands — spot dolphins or visit the Hole in the Rock
  • Explore Māori culture at Waitangi or on guided cultural tours
  • Hike through ancient forests in Waipoua or Puketi Forest
  • Visit glowworm caves at Kawiti or Waipu
  • Drive the Twin Coast Discovery Highway — a scenic loop from Auckland through Northland

Getting There & Around

Airports

  • Whangārei (WRE), Kerikeri (KKE), Kaitaia (KAT)

Transport

  • Rental cars are the best way to explore the region
  • Long-distance buses connect to Auckland and other regions
  • Tours available for Cape Reinga, Bay of Islands, and Kauri forests

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Perfect for beaches, boating, and swimming
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Warm waters and fewer tourists
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild weather and great for hikes and cultural sites
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Blooming landscapes and ideal outdoor weather

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Known for seafood (especially green-lipped mussels, snapper, and scallops), tropical fruits, and locally roasted coffee
  • Specialties: Hāngi (traditional Māori feast), kūmara (sweet potato), macadamia nuts, and honey
  • Markets: Kerikeri Farmers’ Market, Whangārei Growers Market
  • Events: Waitangi Day celebrations, Bay of Islands Country Rock Festival, Kauri Festival, Matariki (Māori New Year)
  • Māori Culture: Deeply rooted throughout the region — experience authentic cultural encounters, haka performances, and storytelling

Souvenirs from Northland

  • Hand-carved wooden Māori art
  • Locally produced manuka honey and macadamia nuts
  • Kauri wood products and jewelry
  • Traditional flax weavings and pounamu (greenstone) carvings

Fun Facts

  • Cape Reinga is believed by Māori to be the place where spirits depart to their ancestral homeland
  • Tāne Mahuta is over 50 meters tall and one of the oldest living trees in the world
  • The Bay of Islands was one of the first areas settled by Europeans and is rich in early NZ history
  • You can legally drive on 90 Mile Beach, but only at low tide and with a suitable vehicle

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Bay of Islands Escape

  • Day 1: Paihia + Waitangi Treaty Grounds + sunset cruise
  • Day 2: Dolphin cruise + hike to Haruru Falls
  • Day 3: Explore Kerikeri – Rainbow Falls + Stone Store

5-Day Northland Highlights Road Trip

  • Day 1: Whangārei art trail + Whangārei Falls
  • Day 2: Drive to Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach
  • Day 3: Kaitaia to Waipoua Forest – meet Tāne Mahuta
  • Day 4: Matakohe Kauri Museum + coastal villages
  • Day 5: Return to Auckland via scenic west coast

Cities

  • Whangārei