The North Island

NEW ZEALAND

Te Ika-a-Māui - The Fish of Māui

New Zealand's North Island offers a rich mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and vibrant cities that draw visitors from around the world. From active volcanoes and glowing caves to pristine beaches and thriving wine regions, this diverse destination has something for every type of traveler.

The North Island combines geothermal landscapes, Māori heritage sites, film locations, coastal adventures, and cosmopolitan cities into one compact region you can explore in a single trip. Whether you're interested in hiking through national parks, tasting local wines, or learning about indigenous culture, you'll find countless ways to fill your days.

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The North Island is home to a variety of landscapes, from stunning beaches and lush forests to volcanic plateaus and rolling hills.

Auckland - City of Sails

Auckland sits at the top of New Zealand's North Island and serves as the main entry point for most visitors. The city combines urban attractions like the Sky Tower with natural wonders in the nearby Waitakere Ranges and beaches along the west coast.

Wellington - New Zealand's Capital City

Wellington sits at the southern tip of the North Island and serves as New Zealand's compact capital city. The city combines national museums, independent film studios, vibrant street life, and harbor views into a walkable downtown core.

Geothermal Wonders of Rotorua and Taupō

The Taupō Volcanic Zone creates some of New Zealand's most dramatic natural features, stretching from the central North Island to the Bay of Plenty. This active geothermal region powers the bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers, and steaming vents that make Rotorua and Taupō essential stops on your North Island journey. For more information on Rotorua, click here.

Stunning Beaches and the Coromandel Peninsula

The Coromandel Peninsula on the North Island delivers white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and unique natural features like underground hot springs. Raglan offers world-class surf breaks on the west coast.

Waiheke Island and Wine Country Experiences

Waiheke Island sits 35-40 minutes by ferry from Auckland and offers award-winning wineries, forest adventures, and farm-to-table dining. The island's warm climate creates perfect conditions for vineyards, while its coastal setting provides activities beyond wine tasting.

Bay of Islands and Northland Adventures

The Bay of Islands region in Northland offers 144 subtropical islands, historic sites where New Zealand was founded, and dramatic coastal landscapes stretching to the country's northern tip. You'll find excellent water activities centered around Paihia, significant Māori and colonial history at Waitangi and Russell, and remote beaches leading to Cape Reinga. For more information on Northland, click here.

On the North Island you'll find everything from the urban energy of Auckland and Wellington to the natural beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula and Bay of Islands.

Places

North Island Highlights

Mt Ngauruhoe at sunset. Tongariro National Park. New Zealand.

National Parks and Outdoor Escapes

The North Island protects two major national parks that showcase volcanic landscapes and mountain environments. Tongariro National Park offers alpine terrain with active volcanoes, while Egmont National Park features a symmetrical cone-shaped peak surrounded by native forest. For more information, click here.

Glowworm Cathedral at the end of Waipu Cave in New Zealand

Waitomo Caves - A Magical Glowworm Experience

The Waitomo region holds more than 300 limestone caves carved by underground streams over thousands of years. These caves feature millions of glowworms that light up the darkness like stars, alongside rushing rivers perfect for adventure activities.

Land of the Hobbit

The Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata offers guided walking tours through the Shire's famous filming locations, complete with visits to hobbit holes and a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

Searching for New Zealand's Iconic Kiwi bird

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