New Zealand’s North Island is indeed a stunning destination with a wide array of activities and sights to explore. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or culture enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. The list is huge, there’s so much to see and do, from my time travelling. If you’re on a road trip then make an adventure of it. If you really like a challenge and like Geocaching then try Apollo’s Pool.
Top things to do in New Zealand North Island
- Rotorua – Wai-O-Tapu (active geothermal pools), Geothermal Spa, Maori Experience (Mitai or Tamki Maori Village) try a Hungi
- Matmata – Hobbiton (if you like the hobbits and hairy feet), enjoy an ale at the green dragon inn
More information – hobbitontours.com, my hobbiton blog post - Waitomo – Visit caves and see thousands of glow worms, 100m abseil & caving
More information – waitomo.com, my waitomo blog post - Tongariro National Park – Tongariro Crossing (epic walk), Ski fields for some snowboarding at Mt Ruapehu
- Ninety Mile Beach – Drive down Ninety Mile (actually 55 miles long), sledge down the great sand dunes, visit the light house at Cape Reinga and camp at Spirit’s Bay (such a beautiful spot). Ship wreck bay, at the bottom of 90 mile beach has camping, long right handed surfing wave, snorkeling, swimming, it’s a quiet spot
New Zealand’s North Island offers an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities. It’s a place where you can easily create your own adventure, whether you’re into exploring the wilderness, soaking in hot springs, or indulging in cultural experiences.
- Raglan – Great for surfing and chilling out
- East Coast, Opotiki to Gisborne – Tolaga bay, camp in Tokomaru Bay or Anaura bay, walk to the tip of the East Cape light house, stay in Maraehako Bay and visit the macadamia cafe. You can fish, swim, horse ride, kayak & camp
- Lake Waikaremoana – Not easy to reach, windy steep roads that often aren’t sealed, but it’s worth the trip. At this high elevation it will be cold in the evening, but the lake is worth having a dip in. Swim and there’s lots of treks
- Opito Bay, North Coromandel – Camping, diving, snorkelling & swimming
- Hikuai Gorge -15mins from Tairua, great for camping, walking, swimming & some nice water holes
- Hahei – Hot water beach, take a spade or hire one at any time of the year to make yourself a nice hot water bath. Only able to do this during low tide and in front of the big rock in the middle of the beach, dig your toes in until you find a warm spot
- Colville – Rustic area, go for camping & fishing
- Great Barrier Island – Go for diving, fishing, camping, snorkeling & surfing
- Motuihe Island – Ferry runs in the summer, restored island with walks, swimming, fishing, camping, rare birds, reptiles, kiwi and plants
- Goat Island – Snorkel, dive, kayak or take the glass bottom boat. Can hire things there
- Kai Iwi Lakes – White sandy lakes that are blue like the tropics, and as warm as the sea. Great for camping, fishing, swimming and water sports
- Whananaki – camping, snorkeling, surfing, swimming, diving, fishing & walks