Northland · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Northland: New Zealand's Tropical Paradise

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Northland, the northernmost region of New Zealand, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and rich Maori culture. The region is often referred to as the 'Winterless North' due to its warm climate, making it an ideal year-round destination for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike. One of the main attractions in Northland is the Bay of Islands, a stunning collection of over 140 islands, offering crystal clear waters and abundant marine life. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sailing, kayaking, and dolphin watching. The historic town of Russell, once the first capital of New Zealand, provides a charming glimpse into the past with its well-preserved colonial buildings. Further north, Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, is a place of deep spiritual significance to the Maori people. Here, you can witness the dramatic meeting of the waters and enjoy panoramic views from the lighthouse. Nearby, the Te Paki Sand Dunes offer thrilling opportunities for sandboarding. The Waipoua Forest, home to the ancient and majestic Kauri trees, is another must-visit destination in Northland. The forest is home to Tane Mahuta, the largest known Kauri tree, estimated to be over 2,500 years old. A walk through this ancient forest is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. Northland also boasts beautiful coastal routes, such as the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, which takes travelers through picturesque towns, secluded beaches, and scenic landscapes. This route offers plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, making it perfect for a relaxed road trip.

Waitangi

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Whangārei

Whangarei Falls

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Kerikeri

Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa)

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Cape Reinga

Giant Sand Dunes

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Matakohe

The Kauri Museum

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Waipoua Kauri Forest

Tane Mahuta

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Waitangi

Haruru Falls

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Whangārei

Whangarei Quarry Gardens

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

Mangawhai

Mangawhai Heads Beach

Discover Northland, New Zealand's tropical haven, with its pristine beaches, historic sites, and rich Maori culture. Explore the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga, and Waipoua Forest.

When is the best time to go to Northland?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsDec–Mar
Longest daylightNov–Feb
Driest periodSep–Apr

Explore places in Northland

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Northland sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Cape Reinga Lighthouse

    Explore the breathtaking views and rich heritage at Cape Reinga Lighthouse, New Zealand's northernmost point where oceans collide.

    Cape Reinga Lighthouse

    Hundertwasser Public Toilets

    Explore the artistic marvel of Hundertwasser Public Toilets in Kawakawa, where utility meets vibrant creativity in a stunning natural setting.

    Hundertwasser Public Toilets

    Haruru Falls

    Experience the breathtaking beauty of Haruru Falls, a serene waterfall in Waitangi, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

    Haruru Falls

    Giant Sand Dunes

    Explore the breathtaking Giant Sand Dunes of Te Paki, an iconic natural attraction in Northland, New Zealand, perfect for adventure and picturesque views.

    Giant Sand Dunes

    The Stone Store

    Explore the captivating history of New Zealand at The Stone Store, the oldest stone building in the country, nestled in the scenic Kerikeri.

    The Stone Store

    The Kauri Museum

    Explore the rich history of New Zealand's Kauri trees at The Kauri Museum, a captivating museum experience in Matakohe.

    The Kauri Museum

    Mair Park

    Discover tranquility at Mair Park, a lush urban oasis in Whangārei, perfect for relaxation, family fun, and appreciating nature's beauty.

    Mair Park

    Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery

    Immerse yourself in creativity at the Hundertwasser Art Centre, a vibrant fusion of art and nature in Whangārei, showcasing unique Māori heritage.

    Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery

    Kiwi North: Museum, Kiwi House and Heritage Park

    Explore Kiwi North in Whangārei - a unique heritage park with wildlife encounters and rich historical insights into New Zealand's natural beauty.

    Kiwi North: Museum, Kiwi House and Heritage Park

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    The Stone Store

    Explore The Stone Store, New Zealand's oldest stone building, and immerse yourself in its rich history and stunning natural surroundings.

    The Stone Store

    Makana Confections, Boutique Chocolate Factory

    Discover the art of chocolate-making at Makana Confections, a boutique chocolate factory in Kerikeri, renowned for its handcrafted delights.

    Makana Confections, Boutique Chocolate Factory

    Arthurs Emporium

    Explore Arthur's Emporium, Whangārei's premier surplus store for unique finds and eclectic treasures in a welcoming atmosphere.

    Arthurs Emporium

    Shopnz.com

    Explore the unique blend of Kiwi culture at Shopnz.com, your go-to souvenir store in Whangārei, New Zealand. Perfect for gifts and keepsakes.

    Shopnz.com

    The Merchants of Kerikeri

    Discover local crafts, delicious foods, and the vibrant atmosphere of The Merchants of Kerikeri, your shopping destination in New Zealand.

    The Merchants of Kerikeri

    Himalayan Trading Post

    Explore the Himalayan Trading Post in Whangārei for unique clothing, home goods, and jewelry while supporting charitable causes.

    Himalayan Trading Post

    Gifts on Rathbone

    Discover unique, locally crafted gifts and treasures at Gifts on Rathbone in Whangārei, perfect for souvenirs and special occasions.

    Gifts on Rathbone

    Great Northern Traders

    Explore the great outdoors with quality gear from Great Northern Traders, your go-to sporting goods store in Kerikeri, New Zealand.

    Great Northern Traders

    Kaleo Designs- Wearable NZ Art.

    Explore Kaleo Designs in Kerikeri for unique wearable art, vibrant beach clothing, and authentic New Zealand souvenirs that celebrate local creativity.

    Kaleo Designs- Wearable NZ Art.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    Milford Sound landscape in New Zealand image - Free stock photo - Public  Domain photo - CC0 Images
    Destination guide

    More about New Zealand

    New Zealand: Discover awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant Maori culture, and thrilling adventures in a land of breathtaking natural beauty and welcoming locals.

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    Explore Northland in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Bay of Islands panorama.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Cape Reinga Lighthouse (232822801).jpeg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Ocean coast at sunset (Unsplash).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:'Lord of the Forest' Tane Mahuta.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Poor Knights Islands dive map.png - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Whangarei Water Fall.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:00 26 0874 Russell Neuseeland - Bay of Islands.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Hokianga Harbour, New Zealand 04.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    Free picture: sandbar, beach, sand, water, landscape, nature, dawn, summer,  fair weather, vacation
    File:Stone store, Kerikeri, New Zealand.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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