Exploring North Island, New Zealand

North Island, New Zealand, is brimming with travel and activity opportunities. Whether you prefer natural beauty, high-adrenalin adventures, or urban sparkle, the nation’s largest island has it all.

Few islands on the planet feature as many ecosystems as North Island, New Zealand. The nation’s largest and most populous region, North Island covers almost 114 square kilometres and encompasses diverse and dramatic scenery. Oceans and coasts, rivers and lakes, lofty mountain peaks, and volcano cones - you can find them all here. Furthermore, the country’s capital and largest cities - Auckland and Wellington, respectively - bring some urban ritz and glitz to the mix. It is practically impossible to see all the attractions on the North Island in one visit. Therefore, we have compiled a bucket list of the region’s most alluring destinations and activities.

1. See a natural light show at Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo Caves are among North Island, New Zealand’s most enchanting natural attractions, surrounded by pristine forest wilderness. This spectacular cavern network features underground rivers, massive stone chambers, and glittering stalactites and stalagmites. However, Waitomo’s luminescent green glow worms are arguably even more captivating than the caves. You can explore this twinkling subterranean network on guided walking or boating tours - or, if you are feeling adventurous, a black water tubing experience.

2. Go yachting in Auckland

Wellington may be New Zealand’s capital city; however, Auckland is its busiest and largest hub. Furthermore, this seaside metropolis on North Island, New Zealand, has phenomenal scenery and activity opportunities to complement its urban buzz. Particularly, the city’s twin harbours make a perfect base for exploring the coast by yacht. Sailing offers visitors a unique perspective on this bustling city and outlying islands and highlights the region’s natural beauty.

3. Soak in hot springs

Earth’s power is on full display in the Rotorua region, where seismic forces have crafted a striking volcanic landscape. Its dramatic scenery includes explosive geysers, bubbling springs, vividly coloured volcanic lakes, and steaming fissures. Furthermore, the wilderness extending from Rotarua City is a magnet for thrillseekers. Activity options include hiking, jet-boating, whitewater river rafting, kayaking, and ziplining. Other highlights are the ancient redwood forests around Lake Rotarua and the kiwi conservation centre in Rainbow Springs.

At the end of an adrenalin-packed day, unwind one of the many healing hot springs dotted around this North Island, New Zealand region. If your budget allows, splash out on a therapeutic soak in mineral-rich geothermal pools at one of the world’s top-ranked spas. The renowned Polynesian Spa features 28 pools, including a private pool with panoramic views over Lake Rotorua.

4. Explore the Maori culture

The Maori, the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, boast a vibrant culture deeply rooted in ancestral traditions and a profound connection to the land. One captivating example of their traditions is the haka, a powerful ceremonial dance that symbolizes unity, strength, and the preservation of their cultural identity. For insight into New Zealand’s indigenous culture, visit the outstanding New Zealand Maori Arts And Crafts Institute in Rotorua.

Alternatively, tour the nearby Te Wairoa - ‘The Buried Village’ - entombed in Mount Tarawera’s 1886 eruption. The museum’s excavated homes and artifacts commemorate those who died in the disaster and serve as reminders of nature’s might.

5. Relax on beaches on the Karikari and Coromandel peninsulas

The Karikari Peninsula is almost as far north as you can go on North Island, New Zealand, and involves a slight detour from the beaten track. However, Karikari’s pearly white beaches and secluded turquoise bays will reward travelers who make the mission. You can swim, snorkel, and dive in crystal-clear Pacific Ocean waters in this idyllic setting. Alternatively, stroll along the area’s coastal trails or soak up the sun on its pristine shores. Highlights of the peninsula include Legendary Phuweke Beach, Karikari Beach, and picture-perfect Waikato Bay.

Moreover, the surrounding valleys are home to world-class wineries, many offering tastings and sales. For a more accessible beachside option, head to the Coromandel Peninsula. It may be less remote than Karikari, but it has plenty of its own charms. Burnished golden sands, fairytale forests, and dazzling marine life make Coromandel one of the country’s most enticing coastal destinations.

6. Go adventure-seeking at Lake Taupo

No trip to North Island, New Zealand, would be complete without a visit to Lake Taupo. Lying in a volcanic crater, this vast natural reservoir and its surrounds offer some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. Its landscape encompasses snow-capped mountain peaks, jade and aquamarine lakes, simmering hot springs, and steaming vents and geysers. Furthermore, the Lake Taupo region is an adventurer’s Mecca. Its outdoor and high-adrenalin activities include trekking, river-rafting, jet-boating, and bungy jumping.

7. Climb mystical mountains in Tongariro National Park

The Tongariro Crossing is one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Hikes and is rated the country’s best day hike. Covering 19 kilometres, the trail encompasses desolate mountains, steaming fissures, and brilliantly coloured volcanic lakes. This rugged, evocative scenery motivated Peter Jackson to choose it as the setting for Mordor in his world-famous Lord of the Rings trilogy. The Crossing is relatively flat for the first hour or so.

However, it takes a steep zigzag up the Devil’s Staircase before levelling out across the South Crater. The final upward push is to the trail’s highest point - the Red Crater’s 1886-metre-high summit. From the crest, you can enjoy spectacular views of the crater’s rust-red walls and Twin Emerald Lakes below. A cautionary word - the entire hike takes seven to nine hours and demands a reasonable to good fitness level.

8. Visit Hobbiton in Hamilton

Rotorua City is also the closest urban centre to another Peter Jackson film set - Hobbiton Village. With its emerald-green hills, lush meadows, and glittering lakes, the valley was the perfect setting to recreate Tolkien’s legendary Shire. Visitors can explore this world-famous film set on guided tours - and even enjoy a Middle Earth-themed evening banquet. However, Hobbiton is far from Hamilton’s only attraction. This coastal town’s pristine shoreline is dotted with secluded limestone coves, while its interior features crystalline waterfalls and mountain peaks.

Furthermore, it is a culinary and artistic hub of North Island, New Zealand. Therefore, visitors can look forward to bespoke art galleries, excellent restaurants, and designer boutiques.

9. Go up the cable car in Wellington

At North Island’s southern tip, Wellington is one of the world’s smallest and sleepiest capital cities. However, the seafront location, bohemian flair, and culinary delights of this North Island, New Zealand, destination make it a charming stopover. Take the cable car up Kelburn hillside for unforgettable views over the city. This historical tram has been operating since 1902 and provides an iconic urban experience. The best time to go up is just before sunset when you can see the city below bathed in burnished light.

Furthermore, you can enjoy dinner at one of the hilltop restaurants as darkness falls, then enjoy the city lights. Looking down from this vantage point at night is like gazing into a giant’s jewel box. If you have spare time, drive around Wellington’s sparkling coast, peppered with secluded bays and inlets.