Find Accommodation, Activities, Tours & Transport in Northland
Read our Northland Travel Blog
Incorporating the Bay of Islands, the Kaipara District, Hokianga & Far North.
Upcoming Events in Northland 2024
27th July – Rumble in Russell
26 – 27 July – Brew Bay of Islands
9 – 11 August – Bay of Islands Jazz and Blues Festival
24 August – Bay of Islands Beast
August – NZ Police Winter Games, Whangarei
8 – 15 Sept – Upsurge Arts Festival
10 – 13 Oct – Bay of Islands Walking Weekend
2 Nov – Northland Chess Championships
16 Nov – Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon
30 Nov – Island Sips & Sounds at Otehei Bay | Explore Group
30 Nov – Beach to Bay Ocean Swim
6 Dec – Paihia Christmas Parade – theme “Movies”
27 Feb – 2 March – Cruz’n the Bayz
For those seeking idyllic, uncrowded beaches set amidst a subtropical paradise, look no further than Northland, New Zealand.
Northland’s east coast is renowned for its pristine shorelines, while the west coast boasts awe-inspiring natural wonders like the ancient Tane Mahuta kauri tree and untouched forests of Waipoua, Warawara, Omahuta Kauri Sanctuary, and Puketi.
Don’t miss the extraordinary Koutu and Wairere Boulders, along with the majestic sand dunes of North Hokianga and the iconic Ninety Mile Beach.
Towns & Cities in Northland
- Whangarei – The main hub and sole city in the area.
- Dargaville – Principal town within the Kaipara District.
- Kaitaia – Located in the far north, near the renowned 90 Mile Beach.
- Kerikeri – Situated in the Bay of Islands, boasting New Zealand’s oldest structures.
- Opononi – A quaint village situated across from vast sand dunes on Hokianga Harbour.
- Paihia – A historic town at the heart of the Bay of Islands, notable for the Treaty of Waitangi settlement site.
- Rawene – A charming and historic village gracing the western shores of Hokianga Harbour.
- Russell – Historic and significant as New Zealand’s initial European settlement, nestled in the Bay of Islands.
- Whangaroa – A picturesque harborside village located north of the Bay of Islands.
Experience the stunning Bay of Islands with a boat cruise offering dolphin viewing, diving, fishing, or simply basking in the sun. Don’t miss the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a pivotal historic site in New Zealand’s history.
Journeying along the west coast, you’ll encounter the majestic Tāne-Mahuta, the largest kauri tree known to exist. Continuing northward leads to Hokianga Harbour and Ninety-Mile Beach, characterised by expansive white sand dunes and serene beachside communities.
At the northernmost tip of New Zealand lies Cape Reinga, where the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea converge, offering a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Whangarei, Northland’s sole city, provides ample accommodation options and a gateway to the region’s lifestyle. Relax at waterfront cafes, observe yachts gliding by, or explore the vibrant farmers’ market on Saturday mornings for fresh local produce.
Embark on the Twin Coast Discovery Highway to fully immerse yourself in Northland’s beauty and diversity. This scenic route winds along the Tasman and Pacific coasts, offering panoramic views of rolling farmland and lush Kauri rainforest, presenting a captivating exploration of the region.
Spanning from Brynderwyn to Hokianga Harbour, the Kauri Coast is accessible via the Twin Coast Discovery Highway. Renowned for its colossal kauri trees, picturesque beaches, and rich Maori and pioneer history, this region is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural heritage.
For invaluable insights into the Kauri Coast, a visit to the mesmerising Kauri Museum in Matakohe is a must. Delve into the rich history of the mighty kauri tree and the pioneering settlers of New Zealand.
Continuing northward from Dargaville, you’ll encounter the breathtaking Kai Iwi Lakes. These crystal-clear freshwater lakes offer idyllic settings for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and sailing. Journey further to Waipoua Forest, where ancient Kauri giants stand as living history, before being greeted by stunning vistas and the charming harbourside communities of Omapere and Opononi, nestled along the shores of the breathtaking Hokianga Harbour.
