Wondering where to go on your New Zealand itinerary?
Below is my selection of the 25 best things to do in New Zealand North island: best attractions, best views, best walks, best activities...
All the must-see (in my opinion) with pictures to help you decide if you want to visit them.
In this article, no ads, no sponsored posts. Just some affiliate links.
If you purchase through them, I get a commission at no extra cost to you (Disclosure).
Top 10 things to do in New Zealand North Island
Let's start with my absolute top 10 favorites
1. Admire Mt Taranaki - best view in NZ North island
- Why visit -
You are going to see the picture above in many of my articles. I fell in love with Mt Taranaki and particularly this view. It combines the lush vegetation typical of New Zealand, a small lake and the snow-capped perfectly shaped volcanic cone - a postcard shot of North Island! I think I will print a puzzle out of it 🙂 - Location -
West coast, Mt Taranaki rises near New Plymouth
Rotorua to New Plymouth = 4h
Auckland to New Plymouth = 4h40
This photo was taken at Lake Mangamahoe, 15min drive from New Plymouth - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access
30min to a couple of hours
Easy access to the park - short walk uphill to the viewpoint - Tips -
Best at sunrise (but the park opens only at 7am)
You can take pictures from the lake shore, or climb to the viewpoint from the small dam - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in New Plymouth
2. Be mesmerized by the colors of the Blue Spring
- Why visit -
That was a fantastic surprise. I was not sure what to expect but I loved it. The place is mesmerizing: the colors, the movements, the clarity of the water...
The water is so pure it supplies a lot of New Zealand bottled water. The natural filtering system happens over 50 to 100 years through the Mamaku plateau.
There is a short and a longer walk along the spring and river
See more photos - Location -
East of Rotorua
Rotorua to Blue Spring = 30min drive - Access / Cost / Time -
For the short walk, plan 1h return
Free access - easy walking path but no shade - Tips -
Try visiting when the sun is shining so that colors are more intense and the water more sparkling 🙂 - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Rotorua
3. Admire the geothermal paintings of the Earth
- Why visit -
There are many geothermal valleys to visit around Taupo and Rotorua (see my guide). Orakei Korako was my absolute favorite and yet it is one of the least visited (because not right next door to Rotorua).
I thing the silica terrace magnificent with so many intense colors. Plus the whole walk takes you to forest and to viewing platforms offering different viewpoints of the geothermal features. I could have stayed all day! - Location -
North of Taupo
Taupo to Orakei = 30min drive
Rotorua to Orakei = 55min drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Entrance for a fee - Small boat to cross the lake and reach the walking path
Plan 1h30 to complete the loop but longer if you are as fascinated as I am
well maintained path but 885 stairs (total up and down).
If you have knee problems, you can still do the terrace at the bottom which is fascinating
More photos on my Orakei Korako article - Tips -
Take your time, look at the shades of colors, wait for the small geyser to spit, imagine shapes... and don't miss the geothermal cave (a rare feature).
Plus when you walk through the forest, listen for the birds. I find it incredible this co-living of geothermal activity and flora/fauna.
You can pre-purchase your entrance ticket in your currency here - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Taupo
4. Admire Castlepoint from every angle
- Why visit -
Castlepoint is a a detour off the main road so not many people take the time to visit, but it was one of my favorite coastal places in New Zealand. The cliffs have fascinating shapes creating a lagoon.
Plus you can climb on both side: the lighthouse or the "castle" for amazing views of the beaches
Find out more in my article about the Castle point scenic reserve - Location -
East coast, North of Wellington
Wellington to Castlepoint = 2h30 drive
Napier to Castlepoint = 3h45 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access
Plan to spend a night there to see the sunrise - Tips -
Be careful the place gets a lot of wind
I recommend both walks: the climb to the lighthouse and the climb on the other side near the "castle" (200 stairs) - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the accommodations in Castlepoint
5. Hike in Tongariro
- Why visit -
Tongariro is one of the most beautiful parks in New Zealand. It is an active volcanic area.
There is a large choice of small walks and long hikes. The most famous is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing that takes all day.
For a good walk with no technical difficulties, you can consider the Taranaki falls walk (2h) with great views of the volcanoes - Location -
Around the village of Whakapapa, South of Lake Taupo
Taupo to Whakapapa = 1h15 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access
Plan 2h to several days depending on your hiking wishes - Tips -
Even if you can't walk, you can drive to Whakapapa village and continue above on the side of Mt Ruapehu for stunning views of the area - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Whakapapa
6. Go North to Cap Reinga - best things to do in upper north island
- Why visit -
Cape Reinga is one of the most famous locations in NZ North island. It is the most Northern area of New Zealand.
It offers a mix of volcanic rocks and sand dunes.
Plus from the charming lighthouse, you can see where the Tasman sea and the Pacific ocean meet.
See the things to do around Cape Reinga - Location -
North end of the island
Kaitaia is the town at the base of the peninsula
Kaitaia to Cape Reinga = 1h drive
Paihia (Bay of islands) to Cape Reinga = 3h drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access - 2 carparks
Plan 1h to enjoy the walk to the lighthouse
The walking path is paved and well maintained (downhill on the way to the lighthouse) - Tips -
Check out the different signs about the nature and the culture of the area. You will be able to notice a lot of things and take in the spirituality of the place.
If you love hiking, there are many options in the area - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Kaitaia
7. Walk inside a natural cathedral at Cathedral Cove
- Why visit -
Probably one of the most famous beaches in New Zealand
It offers a giant archway that feels like a Cathedral
More photos and info on my Cathedral Cove article - Location -
Coromandel peninsula, East Coast, near the town of Hahei
North of Tauranga
Hamilton to Cathedral Cove = 2h20 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Accessible at low tide
Free access - Plan 2h
Parking is not open anymore (Shuttle from Hahei or 30min extra walk from Hahei) - Tips -
Go before low tide to have plenty of time to explore
Pay attention to the forest and look for the birds - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Hahei
8. Be disgusted and fascinated by glowworms at Waitomo
- Why visit -
I love caves a lot. Waitomo is the most famous cave system in New Zealand. Most people only go to the main cave (with the short boat ride under the glowworms) but there are many more options.
You can enjoy stalactites, stalagmites, and the phenomenon of the glowworms which create a star-full-sky-like show when the caves are dark.
You will also learn about those animals and how it happens, which will make it less dreamy... LOL - Location -
West of Rotorua, South of Hamilton, Road 3
Rotorua to Waitomo =1h45 drive
Auckland to Waitomo = 2h30 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
All cave entrance for a fee - combined tickets possible
Plan 1h for one cave or a full day to do severals
All level of difficulties from easy walking to black water rafting - Tips -
My favorite cave is Ruakuri
Waitomo is the most famous with the boat ride under the glowworms (but it is extremely crowded and the boat ride is very very short) - Where to stay nearby -
Check out accommodations in Waitomo
9. Don't drink the champagne pool
- Why visit -
This tops 10 best things to do in North Island New Zealand deserves another geothermal feature. It is truly a highlight of this island.
My choice is for Champagne pool. You have probably seen it before as it is the most photographed of all. And it deserves it.
The shape and color are fascinating!
See more pictures - Location -
Wai-o-tapu geothermal valley near Rotorua
Rotorua to Wai-o-tapu = 25min drive
Taupo to Wai-o-tapu = 40min drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Entrance for a fee
Well maintained paths with easy to moderate loops
Plan 2 to 3 hours - Tips -
Be amazed by all the crazy colors around the area
Don't miss the nearby Lady Knox geyser (eruption provoked at 10:15 daily) - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Rotorua
10. Walk under a natural bridge
- Why visit -
Most people visiting Waitomo stop at the caves.
However you can keep driving West to a beautiful waterfall and a natural bridge. Both are worth a stop but the Mangapohue natural bridge became one of my favorite places in North Island NZ.
The arch is 17m high (56ft) and opened on each side, hence the name "bridge". - Location -
West of Waitomo (30min drive) - narrow road - Access / Cost / Time -
25min return walk - easy and well maintained
Free access - Tips -
You can also come at night with a flashlight (for the path). Locals have told me that there are glowworms on the roof of the bridge - Where to stay nearby -
Check out accommodations in Waitomo
North Island New Zealand Tourism Map
Want a general idea of where those top 10 attractions in New Zealand North Island are located? Below is my NZ tourism maps with those 10 to help you plan your road trip:
Want more of the best things to do in New Zealand North Island?
The complete maps with my selection of the most amazing attractions in New Zealand North island are available in my eBooks:
- 12 easy-to-plan Maps
- 200 scenic locations in NZ
- Tips to plan + make the most of your time
- 285+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- 6 easy-to-plan Maps
- 90+ scenic locations in NZ North Island
- Tips to plan + make the most of your time
- 150+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
6 Coastal highlights in the North Island of New Zealand
11. Walk on water with the Tolaga wharf
- Why visit -
The coast North of Gisborne is filled with beautiful sandy beaches.
At Tolaga bay you can walk on the longest wharf in New Zealand for great views of the cliffs. It is 660m long (2165ft) - Location -
East coast, in Tolaga bay, North of Gisborne
Gisborne to Tolaga Bay = 45min drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access - Easy walk
Plan 45 min - Tips -
Don't only walk on the wharf. Also get under it for great perspectives
Plus don't miss the Cook cove walk nearby (see #20 in this article) - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Gisborne
12. Watch sunrise at Gisborne
- Why visit -
Gisborne is known as the first city where the sun rises each day (Not the first point, but the first official city).
So let's get up early and appreciate the start of a new day! - Location -
East Coast
Napier to Gisborne = 3h drive
Rotorua to Gisborne = 4h drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access - Spend a night in Gisborne to enjoy the sunrise
Easy access to the beach. walkable city - Tips -
The main Gisborne beach is quite long. It is a great place for a morning walk. - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Gisborne
13. Climb a crazy staircase at Cape Palliser
- Why visit -
Cape Palliser is located on the Wild South East coast of North Island - Hills roll unto black sand beaches and turquoise water.
The colors in the area are stunning and by climbing to the lighthouse you will get wonderful perspectives. Read my article - Location -
South coast, east of Wellington
Wellington to Cape Palliser = 1h40 - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access
Last 3km are a gravel road - 252 stairs to the lighthouse's viewpoint - Tips -
Don't miss the seals on the rocks by the water - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Martinborough
14. Sail in the Bay of Islands
- Why visit -
The Bay of Islands is one of the most famous destinations in New Zealand North Island.
Golden beaches, crystal waters, dolphins, seals and many many islands to explore...
I even saw a penguin swimming! - Location -
North East Coast - main city Paihia
Auckland to Paihia = 3h drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Cost of a boat tour in the bay of islands
Plan at least half a day - Tips -
See the many options to cruise around the bay of islands - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Paihia
15. Soak in Hot Water
- Why visit -
Who needs a spa when you can dig in a beach, and build your own castle filled with really hot water.
This is a fun experience to have, especially if you run after in the cold ocean - Location
Coromandel peninsula, East coast
Hamilton to Hot water beach = 2h15 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Short walk to reach the area where the water is hot
Free access, you can rent spades
Plan 2h to dig and enjoy - Tips -
Combine hot water beach with Cathedral cove.
Nice place for sunrise
It is quite long to dig, so suggest to team up with other people - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the accommodations in Hot Water Beach
16. Watch the lion at Piha Beach
- Why visit -
Piha is one of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand. It is a long and deep stretch of black sand with steep cliffs.
In the middle stand proudly the lion rock.
There are many areas to explore on the beach and you can also get up on the cliffs for impressive views. - Location -
West coast, West of Auckland
Auckland to Piha = 45min drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access.
Large beach, plan at least 2h, but I recommend half a day with sunset - Tips -
Visit at low tide to walk in the canyon formed with Taitomo island
Walk up to the Tasman viewpoint where you can clearly see the lion shape of the middle rock - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the accommodations in Piha
4 Best places to visit in New Zealand North Island - short walks
17. Putangirua Pinnacles
- Why visit -
The Putangirua Pinnacles are an impressive geological features. It is not as colorful as I would have loved but their size is impressive.
You can walk right in the river bed to be surrounded by those giants
And if you are a fan of Lord of the Ring...
See more photos - Location -
South coast, East of Wellington
Wellington to Pinnacle carpark = 1h40 - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access but difficult walk in the river bed (without shade)
Plan 2h via river bed only or 3h if doing the loop with the lookout - Tips -
Wear hiking boot and bring walking poles - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Martinborough
18. Get to the bottom of Bridal Veil Falls
- Why visit -
What a charming water waterfall! Bridal Veil falls is often a favorite for NZ visitors. I think what makes it great is that there are viewing platforms at all levels: right above, at the top on the side, at middle level and at the bottom. You can admire it from so many angles! See more photos - Location -
Near Raglan, West coast
Rotorua to Bridal Veil Falls = 2h20 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access - well maintain path - Plan 45min to see all the platforms
261 stairs to the bottom (to climb back up after)
Or if the staircase is too much for you, you can only see it from the top platform (as per the photo above) - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Raglan
19. Explore the Kauri Forest
- Why visit -
I love trees. Do you? If you are like me, make the detour to the North West coast of New Zealand North island. This is where you will find a forest of Kauri trees. The largest is Tane Mahuta. It is estimated to be 1250 to 2500 years old. And it is 51,5m (1690ft) high with a trunk girth of 13,8m (453ft).
Benches have been set up for you to take a moment and admire it. - Location -
North west coast, South of Hokianga harbour
Paihia to Tane Mahuta = 1h35 drive
Whangarei to Tane Mahuta = 1h45 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access
10min return walk to Tane Mahuta
Or longer walks through the forest - Tips -
Don't hesitate to ask questions to the keepers. They are maoris and can tell you all about the culture around those trees. - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the accommodations in Opononi
20. Walk to Cooks Cove
- Why visit -
The rugged coastline, the scenery... I think the photo is self-explanatory - Location -
The Cooks Cove Walkway is located East coast, in Tolaga bay, North of Gisborne
Gisborne to Tolaga Bay = 45min drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access
1h return for the lookout - Plan half a day for a walk to the cove and return (2h30 return walk) - Tips -
You don't have to do the complete walk. You can stop at the viewing platform at 120m above sea level - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Gisborne
And keep track of your own trip!
3 Fun activities in North Island New Zealand
21. Sandboard on giant sand dunes at Te Paki
- Why visit -
The beautiful sand dunes reach 100m in height (328ft) right by the ocean. With the red river at the bottom and the greenery all around, the contrasts are spectaculars.
And who does not like sandboarding? - Location -
Northern peninsula, just South of Cape Reinga
Kaitaia to Te Paki sand dunes - 1h25 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
The last 3.5km are a gravel road
Free access - you can rent sandboard
You can admire them from the bottom or cross the river and climb them - Tips -
Make sure to bring plenty of water. Climbing sand dunes is exhausting and there is no shade - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Kaitaia
22. Admire geyser at Te Puia
- Why visit -
The powerful jet of the Pohutu geyser can reach 30m (98ft) and it is regular with eruptions once or twice per hour.
Plus the terrace under it looks like another planet! - Location -
In Rotorua, center of North Island
Auckland to Rotorua = 3h drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Entrance for a fee
Plan 1h if only enjoying the lower part with the geyser, Plan 2h for the complete tour, and longer if watching a Maori show
Easy path to the geyser - loose gravel and slopes for the rest of the walk - Pre-purchase your entrance ticket in your currency here
- Tips -
Try going early morning to avoid the crowds. It is a popular place - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Rotorua
23. Get wet in Rere Falls and slide on Rere Slide
- Why visit -
This place is so much fun. I really enjoyed it. Especially with with the sun making the falls sparkle.
The falls are 20m wide and 10m high. And there is a small slope at the bottom. People enjoy climbing it to take a natural shower - Location -
Inland from Gisborne (East coast)
Gisborne to Rere falls = 45min drive (and a beautiful drive!) - Access / Cost / Time -
Free access
10min to half a day depending how much you want to stay and have fun - Tips -
And drive a little further on the road to reach the 60m long natural rock water slide! (but bring a boogie board or an inflatable mattress) - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Gisborne
What to do in New Zealand North Island - 2 other suggestions
24. Te Papa Museum
- Why visit -
I am not much of a museum person, but the Te Papa in Wellington is worth a visit. - Location -
Wellington, South coast - Access / Cost / Time -
Free entry - Plan 1h to several days LOL
The whole exhibit on the Maori culture is worth some time - Tips -
Don't miss the rooftop terrace with views of the city - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Wellington
25. White Kiwi at Pukaha Wildlife centre
- Why visit -
There are several wildlife center worth visiting in New Zealand
This one is not the best in terms of freedom of animals but this is a great place to learn about the NZ birds. The team is great.
And you can see a white Kiwi bird which is rare (no, it is not albino) - Location -
It is a great place to cut the drive to or from Wellington
Wellington to Puhaka = 1h45 drive - Access / Cost / Time -
Entrance for a fee
Plan at least 1h30
Easy walk around - Tips -
Don't miss the explanation by a volunteer about the Kiwis! - Where to stay nearby -
Check out the best rated accommodations in Masterton
Planning a North Island New Zealand Road Trip itinerary
Must-see New Zealand South Island destinations
When planning your trip I think the unmissable destinations / regions are : The Rotorua geothermal wonderlands, Cape Reinga and the sand dunes, Waitomo and its glowworms, Tongariro National Park and Mt Taranaki.
But I have been blown away everywhere, so it is really difficult to tell you where not to go...
Planning your NZ North Island road trip
Tips to consider when planning your Road Trip itinerary around North Island NZ:
- The roads in North island are very sinuous (a lot more than South island) - driving times are thus longer
- For beaches, the Northern area with Paihia and all the bays is the best
- Although if you want black sand beaches, you have to head West of Auckland
- For geothermal activities head to Rotorua
For hiking, Tongariro and Taranaki are wonderful - You can have a look at my suggested itineraries around North Island
- and check out my eBooks with practical maps to help you plan your NZ road trip:
- 12 easy-to-plan Maps
- 200 scenic locations in NZ
- Tips to plan + make the most of your time
- 285+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
- 6 easy-to-plan Maps
- 90+ scenic locations in NZ North Island
- Tips to plan + make the most of your time
- 150+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
Things to do in New Zealand South Island - Intro
North island also has a lot off amazing things to do with volcanoes, geothermal wonderlands and coastal landscapes. You can check out my Top 25.
And if you are limited time and need to choose between North and South island, you can also read my comparison article to help you decide.
Want to see more of New Zealand?
- New Zealand North Island vs South Island - read article
- New Zealand in 50 photos - read article
- 20 Best waterfalls in New Zealand - read article
- 15 most beautiful beaches in New Zealand - read article
- New Zealand hidden gems - read article
- How to plan a New Zealand road trip - read article
- New Zealand 2 week itinerary - read article
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