What To Expect from the North Island of New Zealand

The South Island of New Zealand hogs the limelight with its glaciers, fjords, mountains, and lakes. In contrast, the North Island goes somewhat unsung as travelers often skip this part of the country entirely.

However, the North Island offers an entirely different perspective on this remote Oceanic nation. The northern landmass comprises volcanic landscapes, ancient forests, stunning beaches, and cosmopolitan cities. This is what to expect from the North Island of New Zealand.

Geothermal landscapes

Rotorua’s geothermal wonderlands are some of New Zealand’s most unique sights. Geysers, thermal rivers, and mud pools stud the area around Lake Rotorua while hot springs swimming complexes tend to achy muscles.

Paths skirt the boundaries of these volcanic phenomena at the Te Puia, Waiotapu, and Whakarewarewa thermal parks, enabling visitors to get as close as is safely possible. Scenic helicopter flights allow a privileged view from the sky.

As the heartland of Aotearoa’s Indigenous Māori people, Rotorua offers cultural encounters including Hāngī dining experiences, explainers on medicinal plant healing, and canoeing demonstrations.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is perhaps New Zealand’s most iconic day hike. This 12-mile hike passes Mount Ngauruhoe – the volcanic cone immortalized as Mount Doom in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy – before summiting the Red Crater for incredible views of the national park. The route concludes by passing emerald-green crater lakes.

Many explorers bookend this vigorous hike with a stay at Huka Lodge where luxury cottages come with private pools and volcanic spa facilities. This property can also assist with transfers and private hiking guides.

Beaches and islands

A warmer climate and sandy beaches make the North Island a hit with travelers seeking rest and relaxation. The Bay of Islands is home to beautiful coves while a short boat ride brings you to the delightful Urupukapuka Island. Auckland’s North Shore has long, sweeping beaches overlooking the volcanic Rangitoto Island.

Also accessible from Auckland, Waiheke Island is one of the best places in New Zealand for wine and fine dining. Island wineries come with an assortment of beachfront and vineyard-facing restaurants and tasting rooms.

The Coromandel Peninsula is another coastal beauty spot with the nation’s most photogenic beach. Cathedral Cove, named for its natural rock formations, is only accessible by boat.

Auckland and Wellington

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is cocooned in a bay off the Cook Strait. The harbor area contains the country’s national museum while the central neighborhood is awash with coffee houses and art galleries. Venture out to the Zealandia sanctuary for the opportunity to spot rare and endangered flora and fauna including the flightless kiwi bird.

Sleek, glossy Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and transport hub. Apart from visiting the local beaches and islands, the “City of Sails” has a vibrant waterfront district with quayside restaurants and yachts available for charter.

Exquisite wines and Art Deco

Besides Waiheke Island, the North Island is home to eight further wine regions including the prestigious Hawke’s Bay. This historic wine region excels at the full spectrum of red wines with full-bodied “Bordeaux” Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends being the hallmark. Just like the Marlborough Region of New Zealand's South Island, Hawke’s Bay is best explored by bicycle.

While in the region, don’t miss the opportunity to spend time in Napier. After a devastating earthquake flattened the city in 1931, it was rebuilt in the style of the decade and hosts all manner of jazz festivals and vintage car exhibits.