The Northland Region of New Zealand is a diverse and stunning region where culture and nature meet! It is the northernmost and only subtropical region of the country, with long summers and mild winters. Northland offers a variety of attractions and activities for travellers, from diving into the marine wonders of the Poor Knights Islands, discovering the ancient kauri forests and exploring historical towns.
An Overview of the Northland Region of New Zealand
| Northland Location: | The northernmost region of the North Island of New Zealand, occupying the top 80% of the Northland Peninsula |
| Bordering Regions: | Auckland Region to the south |
| Region Size (km2): | 13,789 |
| Population: | 179,076 (2018) |
| Main Cities and Towns: | Whangarei, Kerikeri, Paihia, Russell, Kaitaia, Dargaville |
| Most Popular Tourist Destinations: | Cape Reinga Waitangi Treaty Grounds Whangarei Falls The Kauri Museum Tane Mahuta Walk Paihia Harbour Poor Knights Islands |
Highlights of the Northland Region!
Places to Visit in Northland
Cape Reinga
Cape Reinga is the northernmost point of the North Island, and is a truely spectacular place to visit! Here, you can stand at the stunning Cape Reinga Lighthouse, and witness the sheer power of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean as they meet in a swirl of currents.
Cape Reinga is a sacred place for Maori, who believe that the spirits of the deceased depart from here to their ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. Soak up the stunning views from the lighthouse, walk along one of the coastal tracks, or join a guided tour to learn more about the culture and history of the area.
Ninety Mile Beach
Ninety Mile Beach is a long stretch of sandy beach of the west coast of the Northland Region, stretching all the way from Ahipara to Scott Point. Despite it’s name, it is actually only around 88 kilometers long! It is famous for its big-game fishing, surfing, and sand dunes. It is also an official highway – though only for 4wD! Many tours and buses use the beach as a scenic route to Cape Reinga.
Giant Sand Dunes
The Giant Sand Dunes are found near the northern end of the Ninety Mile Beach, and offer a unique and exhilarating experience! These dunes are perfect for ‘sand-surfing’ and you can slide down their steep sides using a boogie board! The dunes also offer panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding landscape.
Doubtless Bay
One of the best places to explore in Northland is the white sands and charming towns of Doubtless Bay! You can explore the small towns of Mangonui, Coopers Beach, Cable Bay, Taipa and Karikari, or visit the historic sites of Rangikapiti Pa and Mangungu Mission House.
Hokianga Harbour
Hokianga Harbour is a long and narrow inlet on the west coast of the Northland Region. It is an awesome place to explore, and a little way off the beaten track! This harbour is a place of great historical and cultural significance, as it is the landing site of the legendary Polynesian explorer Kupe, who discovered New Zealand around 925 AD! It has a number of amazing natural wonders, including the fascinating Wairere Boulders.
Waipoua Forest
Waipoua Kauri Forest is a forest on the west coast of the Northland Region, and the largest remaining tract of native forest in Northland. It preserves some of the best examples of kauri forest remaining in New Zealand, including two of the largest living kauri trees, Tāne Mahuta and Te Matua Ngahere. The forest is also home to many rare and endangered birds, such as the North Island brown kiwi and the North Island kōkako.
Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is one of the most popular destinations in the Northland Region. Renowned for its beautiful golden sand, crystal-clear water, and over 144 islands, it’s a nature-lovers paradise! It is home to the charming towns of Paihia, Waitangi, Kerikeri, and Russell, and is popular for boating, swimming and hiking.
Waitangi
Waitangi is located on the northern banks of the Waitangi River in the Bay of Islands, and is a sight of historical significance in New Zealand! It is the site of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, the founding document of New Zealand, on 6 February 1840. You can visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where you can see the Treaty House, the flagstaff, the carved meeting house, and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe. You can also enjoy the cultural performances, guided tours, and museum exhibitions at the grounds.
Kerikeri
Kerikeri is a town in the Bay of Islands, and the largest town in Northland. It has a long and colourful history, dating back to the Māori chief Hongi Hika and the missionaries who established the second mission station in New Zealand. You can explore its boutique wineries, art galleries, local produce and natural attractions, such as Rainbow Falls and Puketi Forest. You can also visit the historic sites of the Kerikeri Mission Station, the Stone Store, and the Kemp House, the oldest building in New Zealand.
Russell
Russell is a town in the Bay of Islands, and the first permanent European settlement and seaport in New Zealand. It has a fascinating history of Māori and European contact, whaling, trading, and lawlessness. It was once known as the “hell hole of the Pacific” for its rowdy and drunken behaviour. You can discover its heritage buildings, such as the Pompallier Mission and the Russell Museum, or visit the Duke of Marlborough – the first place in New Zealand to have a liquor licence!
Paihia
Paihia is a the main tourist hub in the Bay of Islands, and is the perfect base for exploring the area! It has a wide range of accommodation, dining, and shopping options, as well as many tour operators and activities. You can cruise the bay, swim with dolphins, kayak, or hike. You can also take a ferry to Russell, or a bus to Cape Reinga. Paihia is also close to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where you can learn more about the history and culture of New Zealand.
Whangarei
Whangarei is the northernmost city in New Zealand, and the largest city in Northland. It is situated on a harbour that is often called the “Town Basin“, and has a vibrant waterfront with cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and museums. You can explore the city’s attractions, such as the Whangarei Falls, the Quarry Gardens, the Kiwi House, and the Clock Museum.
Tutukaka
Tutukaka is a small coastal town on the east coast of Northland, about 30 kilometres northeast of Whangarei. It is a popular destination for diving, fishing, surfing, and sailing. Tutukaka is the gateway to the Poor Knights Islands, a marine reserve and a World Heritage Site, where you can see a spectacular underwater world! It is also surrounded by gorgeous white sand beaches, such as Matapouri, Whale Bay, and Sandy Bay.
Poor Knights Islands
The Poor Knights Islands are a group of islands and rocks off the east coast of Northland, about 23 kilometres from Tutukaka. They are a marine reserve and a World Heritage Site, renowned for their underwater wonders and biodiversity, and are home to man endemic and rare species! The Poor Knights Islands are filled with caves, arches, tunnels, and walls, creating a dramatic landscape to explore! You can visit the islands by boat and enjoy diving, snorkelling, or sightseeing.
Whangarei Heads
Whangarei Heads is a peninsula that forms the eastern boundary of the Whangarei Harbour. It is a scenic area with volcanic peaks, native forests, sandy beaches, and rocky coves, and is a great place for hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, or camping. You can walk up to the summit of Mount Manaia, which offers stunning views of the harbour and the ocean. You can also explore the Bream Head Scenic Reserve, which has a network of awesome walking trails and panoramic views.
Mangawhai Heads
Mangawhai Heads is a coastal town in the Northland Region of New Zealand, about an hour and a half drive from Auckland. It is situated on the north shore of the Mangawhai Harbour, a natural inlet that offers safe swimming, boating, and fishing. Mangawhai Heads is also known for its Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway, a scenic track that follows the coastline and offers stunning views of the ocean and the islands.
