Northland & Bay of Islands

The subtropical Northland region of New Zealand stretches upwards from Auckland to the very top of New Zealand. Take a journey along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway to the iconic Bay of Islands, as well as the Kauri Coast, the Far North, and Whangarei.

Northland is a story of two coastlines – the west coast is rugged and soulful while the east coast is relatively more sophisticated and urbane.

In the beautiful Bay of Islands you can take a boat cruise, view dolphins, dive, fish or just relax in the sun. Be sure to visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds, one of New Zealand's most significant historic sites.

Some of The Many Attractions

Cape Reinga
Explore the top of the North

The Tasman Sea meets the mighty Pacific Ocean at Cape Reinga, the northernmost tip of New Zealand, a must-see when in New Zealand.

Tours are operated by a number of companies, including Fullers GreatSights.

Near the tip of Cape Reinga are the Te Paki Sand Dunes, the largest of their kind in the Southern Hemisphere. While the climb to the top is a challenge, it’s worth it with the adrenaline rush of surfing down them via boogie board.

Not far is Ninety Mile Beach, a seemingly never-ending stretch of sand stretching along the western tip of the North Island. Officially a highway, the best way to explore the beach is by guided coach tour from Kaitaia or Paihia.

Poor Knights diving
Dive into the Poor Knights Islands

Just offshore from Tutukaka lies the Poor Knights Islands – rated one of the top 10 diving sites in the world.

Explore a mecca of diverse fish life, colourful underwater plants and rocky volcanic outcrops. Go snorkeling or diving with Dive! Tutukaka, or explore via stand up paddle-board.

Waitangi
Learn about the Treaty of Waitangi

Take a guided tour through the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds where you can be challenged by Māori warriors, admire the giant waka (Māori war canoe) and expansive views over the Pacific Ocean before enjoying a hearty meal cooked in a hangi (earth oven).

Discover fascinating exhibitions and state-of-the-art learning spaces at Te Kōngahu - Museum of Waitangi.

Prizes generously donated by tourism operators from this area that you could win!

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Check out the Tourism New Zealand website for more information about the amazing things to see and do in New Zealand

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