With a landscape that encompasses a coastline of black sand beaches, active volcanoes and unique geothermal activity, New Zealand’s North Island is as diverse as it is beautiful.

The island is also home to the country’s cosmopolitan cities of Auckland – the vibrant heart of New Zealand – and Wellington, the trendy capital on the lowest point of the North Island.

In contrast, the Northland and the Bay of Islands are dotted with early colonial towns, quiet coves and clear Pacific waters. Further south, past ancient giant Kauri trees, is New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland of Rotorua: complete with bubbling mud pools, bursting geysers and colourful, steaming lakes.

With natural beauty to spare, the North Island’s hiking trails offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to traverse ethereal landscapes and see the local flora and fauna up close.

The rich rewards of this island extend to luxury lodges, fine wines from Hawkes Bay and Māori cultural experiences that allow you to better understand the local relationship to this fertile heartland.

The North Island is the geothermal and cultural heart of New Zealand. It’s here you can experience a locally cooked meal made underground, or fly over the coast to an active volcano island to explore on foot. The variety of landscapes is incredible: an Art Deco seaside town surrounded by wineries, the remote coves of the Bay of Islands or the breathtaking hikes that make up New Zealand’s greatest walks. The North Island really is the place to experience New Zealands renowned manaakitanga (hospitality in Maori). 

New Zealand North Island example trips

Browse the example plans above and talk with our New Zealand experts to create your very own personal itinerary.

Our favourite places to stay in the North Island