This article may contain affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
When I first planned my North Island road trip, Northland wasn’t at the top of my list. And honestly, that was a mistake.
I spent a few days around Whangārei and further north, and it completely surprised me. The beaches feel wilder, the weather is softer, and everything just feels more relaxed than in other parts of New Zealand.
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the detour, the answer is yes. Here are the best things to do in Northland, based on my own trip.
Where is Northland?
Northland is the region just above Auckland, stretching all the way to the very top of New Zealand at Cape Reinga.
It’s known for its coastline, warm climate, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s one of the best regions for a road trip if you like slow travel and spontaneous stops.
You’ll need a car or van for this trip. Book your rental here to get started.
Best Things to Do in Northland
1. Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls was one of my first stops and it immediately set the tone. The walk from the car park is short, but the waterfall is bigger than expected, especially after rain. I even went for a swim even though the water was cold, and I climbed the rocks to go behind the cascading water, which was such a rush.
You can admire the falls either from the front, which is impressive in its own right, or from above for a completely different perspective. I stayed longer than planned just enjoying the view and taking photos. It’s simple, but truly worth it.
2. Whangārei and Whangārei Falls
Whangārei is often overlooked, but it’s a great place to slow down. I walked around the Town Basin, grabbed a coffee near the marina, and soaked up the local atmosphere.
Whangārei Falls is an easy stop nearby. You can walk around it in a loop, and it’s beautiful without requiring much effort. On a sunny day, you can even take a dip in the pools at the base of the falls if you feel like it, which makes it a really refreshing stop.
3. Matapouri Beach
Matapouri Beach is the kind of place you don’t expect in New Zealand. The water was incredibly clear and the sand bright white, and we spent the entire morning just enjoying it.
While swimming, I noticed tiny transparent balls floating in the water, each with a little red dot inside. I’m not entirely sure if they were jellyfish, but they seemed harmless and made our time there even more magical.
The whole place had a slightly tropical feel and felt completely untouched, making it perfect for a relaxed morning by the sea.
4. Mermaid Pools
A short coastal walk from Matapouri leads to the Mermaid Pools. When open, it’s a magical spot with natural rock pools and ocean views. Check ahead because access is sometimes restricted for conservation.
5. Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is one of Northland’s highlights. The best way to experience it is from the water with a boat tour, dolphin watching, or island hopping.
You can book a Bay of Islands boat tour here or reserve a dolphin watching experience here.
6. Cape Reinga
Driving all the way up to Cape Reinga feels like reaching the end of the country. The landscape becomes raw and open, and when you arrive, the view where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean is unforgettable.
There’s something about standing at the very tip of New Zealand that makes you pause and just take it all in. The drive itself is part of the experience, with coastal roads and small stops along the way.
If you prefer a guided experience, book a Cape Reinga day tour here.
7. Te Paki Sand Dunes
The sand dunes near Cape Reinga are massive and stunning. We stayed until sunset and the view was breathtaking, with the sand glowing in the golden light. It’s one of those places that feels almost surreal. You can climb the dunes, slide down, or even try sandboarding, which is offered as an activity nearby.
8. Ninety Mile Beach
Ninety Mile Beach is endless and impressive, but it comes with some important things to keep in mind. If you plan to drive on it, make sure your vehicle is suitable and check the tide times. Most insurance policies won’t cover accidents on the beach, so it’s crucial to be careful.
Also, make sure you know which access point you’re using and research the current conditions before driving. Even if you’re not driving, walking along the beach gives you the full scale and beauty of this unique place.
Consider a guided tour for safety and convenience: book your Ninety Mile Beach tour here.
9. Snorkeling or Diving at Poor Knights Islands
The Poor Knights Islands are a true hidden gem if you love marine life. The water is crystal clear and full of colorful fish, rocky reefs, and even some larger sea creatures if you’re lucky. I went snorkeling here and was amazed by how vibrant and alive everything felt, even just below the surface.
Diving tours are also available and the area is considered one of the best dive spots in New Zealand. Even if you’re not a diver, snorkeling is more than enough to enjoy the underwater world.
Book a snorkeling or diving tour here to experience the islands safely and easily.
10. Hike Mount Manaia
One of the highlights of my Northland trip was hiking Mount Manaia, just outside Whangārei. The trail is relatively short, about two hours return, but it has quite a few stairs and steep sections, so it gets your heart pumping.
The views from the top are absolutely worth it. You can see the Whangārei Harbour, the coastline, and the small islands scattered off the coast. It feels a bit like a lookout over the whole region, and it’s one of those hikes where every step is rewarded.
Even though it’s a short hike, it gives a real sense of accomplishment, and it’s perfect if you want a bit of exercise without spending a whole day walking.
About The Road Trip Itself
More than anything, Northland is about the journey. Empty roads, random beaches, small towns, some of the best moments are unplanned.
Rent your campervan or car here and take control of your trip.
Suggested Northland Itinerary
Day 1
Drive from Auckland to Whangārei
Stop at Whangārei Falls
Day 2
Head to Matapouri Beach
Walk to Mermaid Pools if open
Continue to Bay of Islands
Day 3
Boat tour or dolphin experience
Explore Paihia or Russell
Day 4
Drive to Cape Reinga
Stop at Te Paki Sand Dunes
Day 5
Optional stop at Ninety Mile Beach
Drive back
Tips for Visiting Northland
- The best time to visit is summer for warmer, more stable weather.
- You’ll need your own vehicle.
- Book activities in advance during peak season. Check available tours here.
- Always check tides for beaches if you plan to drive or explore coastal areas.
Final Thoughts
Northland wasn’t a place I expected to fall in love with, and that’s probably why I enjoyed it so much. Less polished than other parts of New Zealand, it feels more open and relaxed. If you’re doing a North Island road trip, don’t skip it. Even a few days can give you a completely different perspective of the country.
