by – Lucy Mitchell
Mother Nature reserved some of her finest work for the North Island of New Zealand, so if you are into road-tripping, you’ll want to spend some quality time exploring the region.
Framed by the shimmering waters of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean, the subtropical, forested Northland region is home to some incredible landscapes, thriving cities, and fascinating sites of cultural and historical significance.
You could easily spend six months here and barely scratch the surface of what this wonderful area has to offer, which is why you need to be organised if you want to travel around it.
For many visitors, particularly those coming from Australia, the city of Auckland is their main entry point to the North Island.
While you can choose to explore the delights of Te Ika-a-Māui through several day trips from Auckland, if you really have a sense of adventure, you’ll want to do it on one big road trip.
Either way, here are some of the best places you should go to.
1. Auckland
Before you go anywhere, you should check out what Auckland has to offer.
Known as the City of Sails, this fabulous city is the largest in New Zealand by population (1.6 million people live there), and its bustling waterfront, Viaduct Harbour, is a great place to kick off your visit.
There, you will be able to enjoy a coffee or a meal with stunning views of the superyachts that are moored right in front of you. Alternatively, make your way up the iconic Sky Tower for spectacular panoramic vistas that will break you out into goosebumps.
If you fancy a bit of culture, head to the Auckland Art Gallery, while animal lovers will want to check out the city’s famous zoo.
Elsewhere, you will find whale-watching and skydiving tours available, plenty of beautiful greenspaces, and several hiking trails, including the popular Rangitoto Summit Track, which will take you to the top of a once-active volcano.
2. Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is a breathtakingly beautiful region that is separated from Auckland by the Hauraki Gulf. Here, you’ll find some of New Zealand’s best beaches, many of which are sandwiched between rugged cliffs and the sparkling azure waters of the South Pacific Ocean.
Two ‘must do’ activities are checking out Hot Water Beach and going on the soul-stirring coastal walk to the ethereal Cathedral Cove (make sure you have your camera at the ready!)
However, if you can drag yourself away from the shoreline, you can venture into volcanic hills that lie within native rainforests and explore several wooden houses that are a remnant of the gold rush days of the 1880s.
3. Rotorua
Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations, so you should definitely add it to your itinerary.
Predominantly, the area is known for being a geothermal wonderland whose major sites include the geyser at Te Puia, and the Champagne Pools at Wai-O-Tapu.
However, if you are into adventure activities, this city is the home of thrill-seeking pursuits like zorbing, luging, skydiving, and mountain biking that will really get your adrenaline flowing!
4. Raglan
If you love surfing, make a point of visiting Raglan, which is widely regarded as New Zealand’s best spot for riding the breaks.
However, there is more to the area than surfing, so even if you don’t want to step foot in the water, you can check out the thunderous cascade at Bridal Veil Falls or relax on Ngarunui Beach, which is famous for its black volcanic sands.
For those still craving adventure, scaling Karioi will take you to the summit of a volcano.
5. Bay of Islands
Nestled at the upper northeastern part of Northland is a gaggle of 144 islands that are aptly referred to as the Bay of Islands.
If you enjoy aquatic pastimes like fishing, boating, snorkelling, kayaking, and sailing, then you’ll instantly fall in love with the area, as these opportunities are plentiful.
History buffs will also be interested in heading to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, as this is where the famous Treaty of Waitangi (the document on which New Zealand was founded) was signed.
There are also several scenic waterfalls and lovely villages you can explore, while the geothermal hot pools at Ngawha Springs should not be missed.
6. Napier
Napier is a stunning coastal city on the eastern part of Northland, roughly halfway up.
Sadly, much of it was destroyed by a devastating earthquake in 1931. However, since then, much of it has been rebuilt in an Art Deco style. The most notable of which is arguably the wonderful zig-zag patterned Daily Telegraph Building.
If you enjoy a nice glass of red or white, the Hawkes Bay region accommodates the cellar doors of some of the country’s best wineries.
7. Wellington
Nestled between the hills and the sea, Wellington is the capital of New Zealand. It is often referred to as ‘The Windy City’ and is known for its foodie culture and artistic vibe.
One of your first introductions to the city should be on the Wellington Waterfront which has some excellent cafes and restaurants. Be sure, also, to take a trip on the Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens, as it showcases fantastic views of the surrounding cityscape.
Elsewhere, Te Papa Tongarewa, the National Museum of New Zealand, is well worth checking out, and there are also some lovely beaches you can head to, including Lyall Bay, a noted spot for surfing, and the very beautiful Island Bay Beach.
