Where Adventure Awaits!
The North Island of New Zealand, located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, is one of the country’s two main islands alongside the South Island. It is home to most of the country’s population, including its largest city, Auckland. With stunning landscapes such as volcanic peaks, geothermal areas, farmland, and beaches, the North Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
It’s the perfect paradise for those who enjoy hiking, cave explorations, surfing, skydiving, giant swings, and various watersports. Experience traditional Maori arts, crafts, and performances, including the famous haka dance, in Maori villages across the island. Both the North and South Islands offer fantastic travel experiences.
I went to New Zealand for 18 months on a Working Holiday Visa and absolutely loved it! So, I’ve written this blog to help other travellers plan their New Zealand trip. In this blog, I’ll focus on the highlights of each location with cool activities to do on the North Island of New Zealand.
Check out ‘ Cool Places To Stay‘ for amazing accomodation options on the North Island.
If you want to go on a solo trip but are unsure where to start, the Female Solo Travel Ebook covers everything you need to know for an epic solo adventure!
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Language & Currency In New Zealand
Language: New Zealand boasts a rich linguistic landscape, primarily dominated by English, the country’s official language. However, alongside English, you’ll often encounter Te Reo Māori, the language of the indigenous Māori people. Te Reo Māori holds significant cultural importance in New Zealand and is actively promoted and preserved across various aspects of society.
Currency: The New Zealand Dollar is the official currency of New Zealand, several of its territories, and Pacific Island nations. It’s advisable to have a mix of cash and cards for convenience, as credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Additionally, ATMs are readily available in urban areas for cash withdrawals.
Auckland: The City Of Sails
Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand and one of the most well-known cities among travellers, is a multicultural city with a diverse population. Due to its high number of boats and yachts, approximately one boat for every six residents, this city is typically called the ‘City of Sails’.
Auckland’s iconic skyscraper features the Sky Tower, which stands 328 meters tall and is a famous landmark for visitors. There’s plenty to see and do in Auckland, so give yourself enough time to fit in all the amazing sites the North Islands offer.
Auckland night markets and the famous sky tower in the distance
Auckland Adventures
Waiheke Island
Nearby islands, including the popular Waiheke Island, are a short ferry ride away, and you can spend days exploring them. This picturesque island is known for its stunning beaches, vineyards, and art scene. You can explore the island by renting bikes, tasting wine at numerous vineyards, enjoying beach activities, and visiting art galleries.
Activities On Waiheke Island
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is 25 minutes from Auckland and easily accessible with a ferry pass. It is the youngest volcano in the volcanic field. The volcano offers great hiking trails, the most popular of which is the 90-minute all-around Summit Track, which leads to the volcano’s summit.
The beautiful island of Rangitoto
Fun Things In Rangitoto
Wellington: Capital City Fun
Wellington, the vibrant capital city of New Zealand, is nestled between a sparkling harbour and lush green hills. Known for its lively arts scene, bustling waterfront promenade, and eclectic culinary offerings, Wellington offers visitors a delightful mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. From exploring the interactive museums and galleries to hiking through scenic reserves, there’s always something exciting to explore in this charming city.
Wellington Viewpoint and Lighthouse
Fun Attractions To See In Wellington
Rotorua: A Geothermal Gem
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland bursting with natural beauty and cultural richness. Known for its bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and vibrant Maori culture, Rotorua offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, immerse yourself in Maori traditions at Te Puia, and relax in rejuvenating geothermal spas. With its fascinating blend of natural phenomena and cultural heritage, Rotorua promises an adventure.
Famous Wai-O-Thermal Wonderland
Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How To Travel Solo Ebook has tips for planning safe, confident, and unforgettable adventures!
Amazing Things To Do In Rotorua
Geothermal haven at Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park
Bay Of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a trendy tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches and rich history. It’s a favourite among many as there is something for everyone. It has 144 islands scattered throughout its waters, picturesque sandy beaches, and clear turquoise waters.
Popular islands include Urupukapuka Island, Russell Island (Piahia), Roberton Island, Motukokako Island, and Moturua Island.
Views of the Bay of Islands
Other Islands In The Bay Of Islands
Urupukapuka Island: Urupukapuka Island is the largest island in the Bay of Islands. It offers a range of great activities, from walking trails and panoramic viewpoints to beautiful beaches, where you can swim, picnic, hike, or simply relax and enjoy the scenic views. It is also home to some historic Máori sites, so check them out while you visit.
Roberton Island (Motuarohia Island): Roberton Island, also known as Motuarohia Island, is famous for its picturesque lagoon and white sandy beaches. It’s a good spot for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the coral life in crystal-clear waters filled with different fish species.
Motukokato Island (Hole In The Rock Island): Motukokato Island, usually called the Hole in the Rock Island, is renowned for its iconic natural feature – the Hole in the Rock. Many boat tours involve taking visitors to the site. The island is also home to a colony of New Zealand fur seals, making it a popular destination for visitors.
Moturua Island: Moturua Island offers a pristine environment with sandy beaches, native bushes, and walking tracks. Visitors can relax on beaches, swim or kayak in clear waters, and hike the island’s walking trails. The island also has a rich cultural history, with fortified Máori villages that can be explored.
Paihia Island (Russel Island): Paihia Island, or Russel Island, is a historic town often considered a must-visit destination. It offers a charming waterfront, historic buildings, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. With lots to learn and lots to see, make sure to visit this well-known island.
Sunrise view of Paihia Wharf in New Zealand
Attractions To See In The Bay Of Islands
Lake Taupo: The Flow Of Beauty
Taupo is a popular location known for several features, including geothermal parks and the stunning Lake Taupo, the biggest lake in New Zealand. It is a top must-see location with many amazing attractions.
Taupo is also a short distance from the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tongariro National Park – a popular active volcanic site with hiking opportunities to cross the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Lake Taupo is in the distance and up close
Have Fun In Taupo
Tongariro National Park
Tongariro is a region on the central North Island of New Zealand known for its natural landscape and the Tongariro National Park. It is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site with active volcanos, emerald lakes, alpine meadows and dramatic mountain peaks. Tongariro Park offers a range of hiking trails, the most popular being the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Arriving at the scenic Tongariro National Park
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging but rewarding 19.4km (12 miles) trek. It boasts beautiful volcanic landscapes, steaming vents, lava flows, and stunning crater lakes. The hike up Tongariro takes roughly 6-8 hours, providing breathtaking scenery and a sensational finish-rewarding buzz. You can do it alone, with friends, or on a guided tour.
On the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Tauranga: Get Ready For Scenic Views
Tauranga is the region’s largest city, known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant lifestyle. It is also known for the iconic Mount Maunganui and easy access to other scenic areas in the Bay of Plenty region, including the Coromandel Peninsula and Rotorua. This is a popular location for visitors on road trips through New Zealand.
Must-Do Attractions In Tauranga
The beautiful Mount Maunganui in Tauranga and the view
Napier: Unique History & Natural Beauty
Napier is a charming town recognised for its architecture, stunning beaches, and thriving wine industry. Its lovely town offers a blend of unique history, culture and natural beauty – Napier is a must-visit location.
In 1931, Napier was hit by a devastating earthquake, which resulted in stunning restored buildings. The beautiful art-deco restored architecture, characterised by distinctive geometric designs and pastel colours, is now a captivating, colourful city.
Quirky art in Napier and the port
Discover The Charm Of Napier
Whanganui: The City Of Artistic Creativity
Whanganui, also spelt Wanganui, is situated at the mouth of the Whanganui River and offers natural beauty, cultural heritage, and artistic creativity. Although it is less well known than some other New Zealand cities, its unique charm and attractions draw people in. Whanganui is perfect for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path route and is increasing in popularity yearly.
Cool street art and glass art in Whanganui
Cool Bits To See In Whanganui
Scenic Whanganui, every corner you turn
Explore The Cool Coromandel
Coromandel is a stunning peninsula on the North Island of New Zealand. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, charming towns, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. The region offers natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Coromandel is a popular destination with visitors trekking from around the world to explore; however, during peak times, it gets busy, so it’s advised to book accommodation and tours in advance.
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Must-See Attractions In The Coromandel
New Plymouth: Place Of Adventure
New Plymouth offers natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor experiences. Its vibrant arts scene, coastal charm, and proximity to Mount Taranaki make New Plymouth a popular destination for visitors seeking diverse experiences.
One of my best hiking experiences was at Paritutu Rock in New Plymouth. This is recommended for thrill seekers looking to climb a steep hike while holding onto a side chain rail to the top for stunning views of New Plymouth.
Steep hiking in New Plymouth
Amazing Activities In New Plymouth
Hamilton: Underground Caves & Outdoor Adventures
Hamilton, a bustling city with a friendly atmosphere, is home to some of the best natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational activities in New Zealand. It is a gateway to the wider Waikato region, known for its lush countryside, underground caves and outdoor adventure activities. While Hamilton may not have the same international recognition as larger cities such as Auckland, it has unique attractions. It is growing popular as a place to work, study and visit.
Panaropanoramic view over the city of Hamilton view over Hamilton
Must-Do Adventures In Hamilton
That’s A Wrap!
As you can see, there is so much to see in the North Islands of New Zealand, from the mountains in Tongariro to the laid-back vibes in Coromandel; this destination has something for everyone. Allow yourself plenty of time to explore, and you’ll fall in love with this beautiful country. If you plan on staying in New Zealand for a long period, check out the info on Working Holiday Visas:
I spent 18 months travelling this stunning island, and I’d boldly say that the North Island will make you want to stay FOREVER. Also, don’t forget—this is just half of the country! You must check out what New Zealand’s South Island also offers.
