Things to do in Northland

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Northland

Types of activities

Where to stay

Northland travel guide

Bay of Islands showing a lake or waterhole and a bay or harbor

Botanica & Cafler Park which includes forests

Northland showing landscape views and tranquil scenes

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Top places to visit

1. Bay of Islands

Visit the stunning Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island and enjoy the many water-based tours, from discovering uninhabited islands dotted around the cold, blue waters to watching dolphins leap around the boat. Enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere in the bay’s towns or retreat to the ancient native forests to be at one with nature.

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Russell which includes tranquil scenes and a bay or harbour

2. Paihia Beach

Enjoy fishing, swimming, picnicking and many other outdoor activities at Paihia Town Beach. The main beach is lined with several cafés and restaurants serving international cuisine and fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. Book a sea kayaking adventure or a big game fishing charter and set out into the sea.

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Paihia Beach showing a bay or harbour and a pebble beach

3. Karikari Peninsula

Swim or snorkel in the pristine waters, fish for snapper and other big game or be the first to leave footprints in a perfect stretch of white sand at the Karikari Peninsula. Visit the vineyards and sample the superb local wines or enjoy a round of golf in the peninsula’s stunning interior.

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I took my partner up Puheke to be able to catch the sunset. I've never been at this time of the evening, and I'm so glad we went! Magnificent cloud formations that just so happen to brighten up Mt Camel in the background. Beautiful!
#sunset

4. Paihia Wharf

Paihia Wharf is the departure point for some of the best fishing charters and boat trips in the Bay of Islands. Take a scenic cruise up Waitangi River or go on a dolphin-watching tour. A passenger ferry to Russell, one of the first European settlements in New Zealand, also leaves from the wharf.

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Paihia Wharf featuring a bay or harbour and a coastal town

5. Kai Iwi Lakes

Formed approximately 1.8 million years ago, the three pristine lakes that make up Kai Iwi Lakes are an attractive natural wonderland today, ideal for watersports, swimming and hiking. The adjoining campgrounds also make a great base for exploring the nearby beaches or forests of the remote Northland region.

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Kai Iwi Lakes showing a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes

6. Russell Beach

Russell Beach is the hub of the town and a popular place to swim, relax and fish. Stroll along the main beach, which is also known as Kororareka, and survey the restaurants, cafés and lodges that line the adjoining walkway.

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Russell Beach which includes a bay or harbour and a sunset

7. Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Stand at the top of the cliffs by Cape Reinga Lighthouse and watch the swirling currents of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy sweeping views across the beaches and visit the 800-year-old tree that is one of the most sacred Maori sites in New Zealand. Extend your stay and camp a night or two at one of the excellent campsites nearby.

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Cape Reinga Lighthouse featuring general coastal views, views and a lighthouse

What to do in Northland

Popular places to visit

Bay of Islands

Swim with dolphins, learn to sail or discover New Zealand’s fascinating history in one of the most beautiful areas in the country.

Paihia Beach

4.5/5(31 reviews)

Go on fishing charters, swim in the sea and browse shops and restaurants near Paihia’s main beach, the site of an annual swimming event that attracts competitors from around the country.

Karikari Peninsula

5/5(1 review)

Discover your own white-sand paradise when you explore this magical peninsula, a scenic vacation destination that offers gorgeous coastlines and wineries.

Paihia Wharf

4.5/5(37 reviews)

Dine on fresh seafood in local restaurants, admire stunning oceanfront views and embark on cruises and fishing excursions from this pretty wharf.

Kai Iwi Lakes

Hike through the forest, go kayaking, set up camp on the lakeshore or dip into the clear waters for a swim in this scenic triple-lake nature reserve.

Russell Beach

4.5/5(29 reviews)

Wander along the jetty for wonderful views of Kororareka Bay, get out on the water in a boat and enjoy alfresco dining along the beachfront.

Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Visit this stunning lighthouse at New Zealand’s northern tip and watch the churning currents where two oceans merge.

Haruru Falls

4/5(21 reviews)

Walk along the banks of the scenic Waitangi River and admire this beautiful horseshoe-shaped waterfall. Continue on the trail to the famous Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

5/5(28 reviews)

Find out about the history of Waitangi when you spend time at Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.

Areas of Northland

Mangawhai Heads

The sun-kissed delights of New Zealand’s Northland come together around this vibrant natural harbor, whether you swim or surf at the Heads or browse the Village.