14 Beautiful Places to visit on North Island, NZ

Introduction

New Zealand’s North Island is the smaller of the country’s two main islands. It boats a dynamic landscape of active volcanic zones, expensive coastline and rolling green hills.

The island is also home to bustling citing, including the nation capital. But what truly sets it apart is its cultural aspects, being the historical and spiritual home to Maori heritage. Today we will explore the most beautiful destinations.

Here are 14 Beautiful Places to visit on North Island, NZ

01)  Taranaki/Egmont National Park :

Te papa-kura-o-Taranaki, formely known as Egmont national park is nestled on the western flank of the North Island. This unique destination is dominated by the majestic and war perfect conical shape of Mount Taranaki.

This dominant Volcano and its surrounding protected area offer a diverse landscape of Rainforest, Alpine meadows and dramatic volcanic features.

Hiking is a major draw here, with trails like the Pouaki crossing track providing close up view of the mountains. The top of this volcano is very often covered in clouds.

Unfortunately, if you are not interested in hiking or short on time then there is also a  beautiful lake you can drive to which sits outside the parks boundaries. You can find great views of the volcano from the lake’s edge or from the mount Taranaki Lookout.

02) Bay of Islands :

Driving another 2 hours to the North will bring you to the popular holiday destination called the Bay of Islands. Paihia serves as the most accessible base for exploring this archipelago and offers great tourist facilities, ferry connection and a cozy vibe.

In fact, Paihia and Marby Waitangi are incredibly significant as the birth place of New Zealand. It was here in 1840 that the foundational document between the British crown and Maori chiefs was first signed. If you are looking for more history, you can take a short 15 Minute passenger ferry directly from Paihia to Russell.

This history town has great restaurants for lunch or dinner as well as cute local shops. Another thing you must do in the area is visiting one of the numerous islands dotting the Bay.

Our highlights was a ferry trip to the Uninhabited urupukapuka island, where we disembarked at Otehei Bay. Here you can admired stunning vistas from its rolling hills and soaked in the sun on the Tranquil beaches. Its also possible to spot stingrays at Otehei Bay.

03)  Waitomo Caves :

Situated about a 3.5 hours drive to the North of Mount Taranaki. The Waitomo caves offers a truly unique experience. These subterranean wonders are famous for their glowworms, transforming the cave ceiling into a breath taking galaxy of tiny lights.

Beyond their natural beauty, these caves are considered sacred sites by the local maori. The caves here can only be explored by guided tour and while you can do  a popular boat ride in the main Waitamo glowworm cave, the region is home to several other distinct cave systems as well.

04)  Hobbiton Movie Set :

About an hours drive west of Rotorua lies the world renowned hobbiton movie set. This Idyllic farmland was carefully chosen and transformed into the shire. You’ll recognized it from the famous lord of rings and the Hobbit movies. You can explore the set on a guided tour during which you’ll wander past the Hobbit holes tucked into the rolling hills.

The tour includes behind the scenes stories and information about the intricate set details. You even get to peek inside a furnished hobbit hole and enjoy a complimentary drink at the green dragon inn. Just make sure to book your tour well ahead of times as tickets sell out weeks or sometimes months in advanced.

05)  Northland and Whangares head :

Venture North on a long journey that takes you past the bustling city of Aucklandd and into the Northland region. This area is known for its subtropical climate and natural beauty. Whangares is the region only city and is home to the impressive whangares falls.

A short drive East of here brings you to Whangares heads, a jagged peninsula vibe here, but if you are looking to get active, then check out the hike to mount Manaia. This steep trails winds through a forest and opens up to some great views with rocky outcrops at the top.

06)   Waipoua Kauri Forest :

The Waipoua Kauri forest can be found about 1.5 Hours drive to the Southwest of Pashia. They hold immense ecological and cultural significance. You can walked around two different section of the forest, both of which were short and easy.

It was definitely worth it to do both trails as we were able to admire dozens of these giants up close. Kauri dieback diseases is a big issue for these trees, so shoes cleaning stations are a crucial part of the visitors experience. This forest is conveniently located on the route back to Auckland and the road trip can also be enriched by others stops, such as the coastal town of Opononi and the relaxing Kai Iwi Lakes.

07)  Wellington :

Perched at the Southern tip of the island Wellington stands proudly as New Zealand’s capital city. Despite its compact size, this urban hub offers a mix of culture, history and natural beauty. Delve into the nations heritage at Te papa Tonqarewa, the museum of New Zealand.

Here you’ll learn about the maori heritage as well as the history and geography of the country. Other fun things to do include relaxing at oriental bay’s inner city beach, taking in the view from the mount victoria lookout, riding the Iconic cable car, or simply enjoying the food scene.

08)  Rotorua :

Located an hour North of Tanpo, Roturua is a destination brimming with unique natural wonders and a rich Maori heritage known for its geothermal activity, the air carries the scent of Sulfur Amidst geysers and  bubbling thermal pools. One things you can’t miss is  a Maori cultural experience with traditional Hangi feast and performances.

There are also some other great things to do in and around the city. If you are looking for the best views, then take a ride on the Rotorua Gandola and zoom down the luge. The Buried village of Te Wairoa, the strange and intriguing waimangu volcanic valley and the majestic red woods forests are also interesting visits but our personal highlight was the exhilarating white water rafting on the Kaituna river.

09)  Tauranga  :

Tauranga city is located about an hour Northeast of Hobbiton. This vibrant coastal area is renowned for its stunning beaches and incredible marine life. A must do experience is the Dolphin watching tour which departs from the Tauranga harbour. On a half day cruise, you venture into the open ocean where you can witness large pods of these playful animals.

10)  Mount Maunganui :

Is another highlight You’ll find sandy beaches and a vibrant atmosphere in this area. For breathtaking panoramic view hike to the summit of the distinctive volcanic dome. This sacred mountain offers views of the beautiful coastline and surrounding islands.

11)  Auckland :

Auckland is New Zealands largest city and a  vibrant metropolis. Its located about a 3 hours drive to the south of the Waipoua kauri forest. This busting urban hub offers a diverse range of experiences for all types of travelers.

For the best views of the city, check out the sky tower or mount Eden. If you are foodie, you’ll enjoy places like Britomart of Fedearal street and if you are in search of waterfront relaxation take a stroll along viaduct harbor. As a major international gateway Auckland is a common final stop for many North island adventures.

12)  Lake Taupo :

Lake Taupo sits just an hour to the North of Tongariro National Park. This lake is actually the caldera of a supervolcano, the remnant of a massive eruption that dramatically shaped the landscape. The lakeside offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.

You can find lots of cute beaches and coffee shops in the small town of Taupo. But beyond its serene beauty two region is alive with geothermal activity evident in bubbling mudpool and steaming vent.

We especially enjoyed exploring nearby orakei korako. This geothermal park can only be accessed by taking  a small boat from the visitor center, which adds to the adventure. The vibrant silica terraces along the boardwalks were truly out of this world.

13)  Tongariro National Park :

Located in the center of the island about 2.5 hours from the Waitomo caves, Tongariro national park is an active volcanic landscape. A highlight for any traveler is tackling the challenging Tongariro Alphine crossing.

This day hike traverses the volcanic zone and is about 20 km or 12.4 miles long. The hike was one of our top experiences in New Zealand, offering breathtaking views of colorful crater lakes and rugged terrain. Be sure to check the weather forecast and book a shuttle as this is a one way hike.

You’ll park along state highway 46 and take a bus from the Ketetalin car park entrance to the trail head. You will also received essential safety information before embarking on this unforgettable adventure.

14)  Coromandel Peninsula :

Drive about 2.5 Hours North to reach the coromandel. This Peninsula is home to rugged mountain lush native forest and more than 400 km to 248 miles of white sand beaches.

Hahei is a great town to bare yourself in and offers a cute downtown core. From the town, you can go on a short walk through the forest that’s suitable for all fitness levels.

This walk will bring you to the area’s star attraction, which is the naturally formed archway cathedral cave. Another popular spot on the peninsula is hot water beach, where you can dig your own hot tub in the sand at low tide. But beyond these main attraction, the coromandel offers diverse outdoor activities, including climbing mount Paku above the town of Tairu for stunning views.