Northland Travel Guide

Explore the stunning Northland region of New Zealand with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top places to visit, outdoor adventures, local culture and customs, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Northland

Northland, located in the northernmost region of the North Island of New Zealand, boasts a rich cultural history, stunning natural landscapes, and a range of outdoor activities for all ages. Whether you’re interested in exploring the history and culture of New Zealand, or looking to hike or bike through beautiful forests and coastal landscapes, Northland has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Northland

There are many fantastic places to visit in Northland, ranging from culturally significant museums and historical sites to natural wonders, such as beaches, forests, and waterfalls. Here are some of the top places to visit in Northland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds - a historic site of great cultural significance, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Maori people and the British Crown in 1840.
  • Hokianga Harbour - a historic site where the first Maori settlers arrived in New Zealand.
  • Te Ahu Heritage Museum - a museum that showcases the history, culture, and art of the Far North region.

Natural Attractions of Northland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cape Reinga - the northernmost point of New Zealand, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean.
  • Waipoua Forest - home to the largest remaining Kauri trees in New Zealand.
  • Bay of Islands - a stunning coastal area with more than 140 islands, great for water activities like kayaking and sailing.
  • Whangarei Falls - a beautiful waterfall that is easily accessible by foot.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northland

Northland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of hiking and biking routes that take you through stunning natural landscapes. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Northland include:

  • Te Araroa Trail - a long-distance hiking trail that spans the length of New Zealand.
  • Puketi Forest - a beautiful forest with trails that are great for hiking and mountain biking.
  • Mount Manaia Track - a popular hiking track that offers stunning views of the Whangarei Harbour.

Best Things to Do in Northland: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are many other great things to do in Northland. Here are some of the top activities and tours available in the region:

  • Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours - Take a boat tour to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
  • Cape Reinga Tours - Take a guided tour to the northernmost tip of New Zealand, with stops at scenic spots along the way.
  • Fishing Charters - Hire a boat and head out to sea for an unforgettable fishing experience.
  • Golfing - Northland has plenty of golf courses, offering scenic views and challenging courses.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northland

If you have a week to explore Northland, consider the following itinerary:

Days Activities
Day 1 Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Haruru Falls
Day 2 Bay of Islands cruise, Paihia beach
Day 3 Kauri forests (Puketi Forest, Waipoua Forest)
Day 4 Hike Mt Manaia, Whangarei Town Center
Day 5 Visit the Far North region (Cape Reinga, Ninety Mile Beach)
Day 6 Visit the Kerikeri area (Rainbow Falls, Stone Store)
Day 7 Relax on a secluded beach (Matauri Bay, Tauranga Bay).

Food and Drink Scene of Northland

Northland has a rich food and drink scene, with plenty of local produce and seafood available. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips - Northland is famous for its delicious fish and chips, made from locally caught fish.
  • Hangi - A traditional Maori method of cooking food in an earth oven, resulting in a smoky, tender flavor.
  • Whitebait Patties - A local delicacy made from tiny freshwater fish.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - Northland has a thriving wine industry, producing everything from crisp white wines to bold reds.
  • Beer - There are several local breweries in Northland, offering a range of craft beers.

Where to Stay in Northland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many great accommodation options available in Northland, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Northland:

  • Paihia Beach Resort & Spa - A luxurious resort in the heart of Paihia, with beautiful ocean views.
  • The Duke of Marlborough Hotel - A historic hotel in Russell, with a restaurant and bar serving delicious food and drinks.
  • YHA Bay of Islands Paihia - A budget-friendly hostel in Paihia, with shared kitchen facilities and a communal lounge area.

What to Buy in Northland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Northland has plenty of local products and souvenirs available that make for great gifts or keepsakes. Here are some of the best things to buy in Northland:

  • Kauri Wood Products - Kauri wood is unique to New Zealand, and is used to create a range of beautiful products, including bowls, carvings, and jewelry.
  • Maori Art and Craft - The Maori culture is an integral part of New Zealand’s history, and there are many local artists and craftspeople creating beautiful Maori art and crafts.
  • Manuka Honey - Manuka honey is a product unique to New Zealand, and is known for its antibacterial properties and health benefits.

Local Culture and Customs of Northland

The Maori culture is an important part of Northland’s history and identity, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Some important aspects of Maori culture to be aware of include:

  • Saying Kia ora (hello) and Haere mai (welcome) - These common Maori greetings are used to welcome visitors.
  • Removing shoes - It is customary to remove shoes before entering a Maori meeting house or marae (sacred ground).
  • Honoring Tapu (sacred ground) - Some places in Northland, such as certain beaches or forests, may be considered tapu (sacred ground) and should be treated with respect.

Best Time to Visit Northland

The best time to visit Northland is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so visitors should book accommodation and activities in advance. Alternatively, the shoulder seasons (September to November and March to May) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northland

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Northland:

Do:

  • Respect nature - Northland has stunning natural landscapes, and visitors should be mindful of their impact on the environment.
  • Try new things - Northland offers a range of unique experiences, from trying new foods to learning about Maori culture.
  • Be prepared for different weather conditions - Northland’s weather can be unpredictable, so visitors should be prepared for both sunny and rainy days.

Don’t:

  • Litter - Visitors should be respectful of Northland’s natural beauty by disposing of their rubbish properly.
  • Disrespect Maori culture - Visitors should be respectful of Maori customs and traditions, including removing shoes before entering a Maori meeting house or marae.
  • Overestimate your fitness level - Northland offers a range of outdoor activities, but visitors should be realistic about their fitness level and choose activities accordingly.

Safety and Health

Northland is generally a safe and welcoming region, but visitors should still be mindful of their safety and take precautions as needed.

Safety in Northland

  • Driving - Some roads in Northland can be narrow and winding, so visitors should exercise caution while driving.
  • Beaches - Visitors should be aware of the risks associated with swimming at unpatrolled beaches and notorious rips.
  • Sun Protection - Northland can have intense sun exposure, so visitors should use sunscreen and wear hats, sunglasses, and coverup when outside.

Health in Northland

  • Medical facilities - There are several medical facilities in Northland, but visitors should have insurance and check with their insurers before they leave home.
  • Insects - Visitors should use insect repellent to avoid being bitten by sandflies and mosquitoes, which can transmit diseases like Ross River Virus.

Getting to Northland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northland is accessible by plane, car, or bus. Visitors should consider the following options for getting to Northland:

Airports Near Northland

  • Kerikeri Airport - Serves domestic flights from Auckland, Wellington and Brisbane, Australia.
  • Whangarei Airport - Serves domestic flights from Auckland.

Bus Stations Near Northland

  • Intercity - Offers daily coach services from Auckland, Hamilton and Paihia.

Other Options

  • Self-Drive - Driving to Northland offers a unique and scenic experience for travelers.
  • Campervans - Campervan rentals is a popular option for taking road trips around Northland.

How to Get Around in Northland

While public transportation is limited in Northland, there are several options for getting around the region:

  • Car Rental - Renting a car is the best way to explore Northland at your own pace and to access more remote attractions.
  • Taxis - Taxis are available in the major cities and towns of Northland, but can be expensive.
  • Bike Rentals - Bike rentals are available in larger towns, but cycling is usually reserved for people with a good level of fitness as it can be hilly.

Where to Go Next from Northland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northland is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring other regions of New Zealand. Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Auckland - New Zealand’s largest city is just a few hours south of Northland.
  • Coromandel Peninsula - A beautiful coastal area with secluded coves and stunning beaches.
  • Rotorua - A Maori cultural center with geothermal activity, hot springs, and unique wildlife.
  • Bay of Plenty - An area known for sun, sea, and surf, with beaches that stretch for miles.

Conclusion

Northland has much to offer visitors seeking the perfect balance of nature, history, and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the rich history of New Zealand with visits to museums and historical sites, seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, or immersing yourself in the unique local culture, Northland promises a memorable experience.

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    Bay of Islands
    Far Far North
    Hokianga