Top Destinations on the
North Island
From geothermal wonders to surf towns and vibrant cities, these North Island destinations are full of character, culture, and epic adventures!
Unsure of where to go?
Check out our blog about the 20 best places to visit on the North Island for a guide to our favorite spots.
Explore the most popular destinations on New Zealand’s North Island
Planning your first North Island trip or coming back for more? These top destinations deliver it all—stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures. Dive in to start planning your dream trip!
Plan Your North Island Trip
Plan your trip easily with these essential guides about traveling the North Island!
Not sure when to plan your North Island adventure? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about visiting in each season—from summer beach days to winter hiking trails, plus what the weather’s really like and how crowds and prices shift throughout the year.
I also share the best seasonal activities and my personal favorite times to visit, so you can choose the perfect time for your New Zealand trip with confidence!
If you’re planning a 10-day North Island adventure, this guide is your go-to resource. It maps out three tried-and-tested itineraries—including routes from Auckland to Wellington, a coastal loop back to Auckland, and a volcanic road trip linking both hubs.
With highlights like Hobbiton, Rotorua, Tongariro, Coromandel, and Waiheke, it’s packed with scenic stops, must-do activities, accommodation tips, and practical advice. These route options take the guesswork out of planning so you can hit the road confidently and enjoy every moment!
Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city and where most people start their adventure, so chances are, you’ll be picking up a rental car here too!
In this guide, I break down everything you need to know before hitting the road, including rental requirements, insurance tips, and insider tips on how to score the best deals. Whether you’re heading north, south, or somewhere in between, this post will help you start your North Island road trip off right!
Auckland is one of the best places to kick off a campervan adventure—and this guide makes it super easy to get started!
I’ve rounded up the top campervan rental companies based in Auckland, complete with pros and cons, pricing, pick-up tips, and what to watch out for (like sneaky fees!). I also share my go-to company and an exclusive discount to help you save. If van life is calling, this is where to begin your North Island road trip planning!
I’ve explored the North Island from top to bottom, and this guide rounds up 40+ of the best things to do along the way.
From epic hikes like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to magical spots like Hobbiton and the Waitomo glowworm caves, these are the experiences that really stood out to me. I’ve also included cultural highlights, wildlife encounters, and a few hidden gems to help you plan an unforgettable North Island trip packed with bucket-list experiences!
The North Island might be known for its culture and coastline, but don’t overlook the hikes—some of my all-time favorites are here!
From multi-day Great Walks like the Lake Waikaremoana Track and Tongariro Crossing to shorter gems like Wairere Falls and the coastal trails on the Coromandel, this guide covers hikes for every level. I’ve included practical info, difficulty ratings, and what makes each one special so you can find the perfect fit. Lace up your boots—let the trekking begin!
Top Attractions and Things to Do
From legendary film sets and glowworm caves to ziplining, whale watching, and Māori cultural experiences—these are the North Island’s top attractions you won’t want to miss!
