Do you have clients who only want to visit the South Island? Tine to make them think again and show them the wonders of the North Island! Think buzzing cities, wild coastlines, and landscapes shaped by fire and water. Clients can soak in geothermal hot pools one day, wander through ancient rainforests the next, then finish with a glass of local wine overlooking the ocean. It's the cultural heart of the country too, with Maori traditions, stories, and hospitality woven into everyday life. Lively, laid-back, and endlessly varied, the North Island is the perfect place to ease into New Zealand while still packing in unforgettable moments. If anyone tries to tell you to skip the North Island and just head to the popular South Island, you can show clients otherwise with varied itineraries showcasing the best that New Zealand has to offer.
Wellington & Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and an energetic gateway to the country, beautifully wrapped around two harbours. Known as the 'City of Sails,' it blends urban life with easy access to nature, from volcanic cones and black-sand beaches to idyllic islands like Waiheke, famous for its vineyards and coastal views. Highlights include the Sky Tower, Auckland Harbour, vibrant waterfront dining, and island-hopping adventures just a short ferry ride away.
Wellington is the compact, creative capital at the southern tip of the North Island, packed with personality. It’s known for its thriving arts scene, great coffee, and strong cultural heartbeat. Must-see experiences include Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, the historic cable car, and scenic views from Mount Victoria. With a dramatic harbour setting and a lively food scene, Wellington feels both sophisticated and effortlessly cool.
Highlights of Auckland and surrounds:
- Iconic Sky Tower and harbour view
- Waiheke Island wineries and beaches
- Volcanic cones like Mount Eden for panoramic city views
- Sailing and harbour cruises on the Waitemata Harbour
- Vibrant waterfront dining and shopping precincts.
Perfect for:
- First-time visitors: easy arrival point with a great mix of city life, nature, and short day trips.
- Luxury travellers: high-end hotels, yacht charters, fine dining, and Waiheke’s premium wine scene.
- Families: safe, spacious, and packed with kid-friendly attractions and island adventures.
- Active travellers: sailing, coastal walks, volcanic hikes, and water-based experiences right on the doorstep.
Highlights of Wellington:
- Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum
- Historic Wellington Cable Car and Botanic Garden
- Mount Victoria lookout for sweeping harbour views
- Lively food, coffee, and craft beer scene
- Scenic harbour walks and waterfront promenades
Perfect for:
- Culture lovers: museums, galleries, theatre, and strong Maori and contemporary cultural experiences.
- Food & coffee enthusiasts: one of New Zealand’s best dining and café scenes in a compact city.
- Couples & independent travellers: walkable, intimate, and full of character.
- Creative or curious travellers: film history, design, storytelling, and local flavour everywhere you turn.
Bay of Islands & Northland
A 3 hour drive from Auckland, the Bay of Islands comprises 144 islands, as well as picture-postcard small towns such as Paihia and Russell. Known as the ‘winterless north’, temperatures here don’t tend to drop below 13 degrees in winter, and are regularly over 25 degrees in summer, making it the perfect destination to get out and about on the water, and explore some of the many islands the region has to offer!
The Bay of Islands is also home to Waitangi, a location of huge cultural significance in New Zealand as this was where the historic Waitangi Treaty was signed back in 1840. Clients can visit the Treaty grounds, experience a cultural performance and even a hangi, promising an unforgettable experience.
Highlights of the Bay of Islands:
- Cruise the bay and visit the iconic Hole in the Rock
- Dolphin and marine life encounters
- Explore historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds
- Kayaking, sailing, and snorkelling in sheltered waters
- Beach time on secluded islands and bays
- Take the passenger ferry over from Paihia to Russell for a sunset drink
- Head up to Cape Reinga, the northernmost tip of NZ and learn about the Maori cultural significance the location holds.
Perfect for:
- Couples & honeymooners: quiet bays, beautiful lodges, and easy romance
- Low-key luxury travellers: space, privacy, and time on the water over big-city buzz
- Ocean lovers: sailing, kayaking, swimming, and marine life at your doorstep
- History-minded travellers: meaningful Maori and early New Zealand history at Waitangi
- Families wanting a relaxed pace: calm waters and flexible, stress-free activities
- Repeat New Zealand visitors or end-of-trip unwinders: a perfect place to slow right down.
Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is classic Kiwi road-trip territory, where winding coastal roads hug pohutukawa-lined cliffs on one side and endless ocean on the other. Just 1.5 hours from Auckland, this laid-back region is known for white-sand beaches, lush rainforest, volcanic landscapes, and small seaside towns steeped in gold-rush history. Highlights range from soaking in a self-dug hot pool at Hot Water Beach and exploring Cathedral Cove, to forest walks, historic rail trails, and epic viewpoints across the peninsula. Add in local art, fresh produce, boutique eateries, and a strong outdoorsy vibe, and the Coromandel delivers the perfect mix of adventure and downtime, best enjoyed over a couple of nights, but just as rewarding on a whistle-stop loop for those short on time.
Highlights of the Coromandel Peninsula:
- Visit Cathedral Cove: walk, kayak, or boat to one of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal spots
- Dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach: time it with low tide and create your own natural spa
- Drive the coastal road: one of the country’s most scenic road trips, with ocean views and quiet bays
- Walk the Pinnacles Track: a rewarding hike with epic views across the peninsula
- Explore the Hauraki Rail Trail: cycle or walk through historic gold-mining country and Karangahake Gorge
- Relax on white-sand beaches: Hahei, Whitianga, New Chums Beach and Lonely Bay
- Kayak the coastline: a great way to see caves, cliffs, and marine life up close.
Perfect for:
- Road-trip enthusiasts: those who enjoy winding coastal drives and spontaneous stops
- Scenery-first travellers: big ocean views, native forest, and hidden coves
- Hands-on explorers: walking trails, cycling routes, and paddling the coastline
- Laid-back couples – Easy days split between beaches, short adventures, and good food
- Adventurous families: especially with teens who’ll love beaches, hikes, and outdoor activities
- Travellers chasing a local feel: small towns, creative communities, and a strong Kiwi vibe.
Geothermal Regions: Rotorua & Taupo
There’s nowhere quite like it. Rotorua is one of New Zealand’s most distinctive destinations, where the earth bubbles and steams beneath your feet. Famous for geysers, mud pools, and naturally heated hot springs, it’s also a strong centre of Maori culture and storytelling. Add forests, lakes, and a huge range of outdoor and adventure experiences, and Rotorua delivers a uniquely New Zealand mix of culture, nature, and fun.
Highlights of Rotorua:
- Geothermal parks with geysers, mud pools, and colourful mineral terrace
- Te Puia, home to the famous P?hutu Geyser
- Native forest walks and lakes surrounding the city, such as the 75m tall Redwoods
- Strong cultural experiences centred on M?ori history and storytelling at Te Pa Tu.
Perfect for:
- First-time visitors: a quintessential New Zealand experience in one location
- Families: a wide range of fun, interactive, and educational activities
- Culture-focused travellers: deep Maori heritage and authentic storytelling
- Adventure seekers: one of the North Island’s top adrenaline hubs
- Wellness travellers: hot pools, spa experiences, and forest settings.
Taupo is defined by big landscapes and an easy, outdoorsy vibe. Set beside New Zealand’s largest lake and close to Tongariro National Park, it offers access to the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the volcanic peaks of Mount Ruapehu. With Huka Falls, hot pools, lake cruises, and plenty of space to unwind, Taupo strikes a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Highlights of Taupo:
- Huka Falls: quick to access and seriously impressive
- Craters of the Moon: a 40 minute walk through part of the largest geothermal field in New Zealand.
- A lake cruise or scenic flight for a different perspective
- Geothermal hot pools just outside town (perfect after a travel day or completing the Tongariro Crossing!
Perfect for:
- Landscape-driven travellers: drawn to big skies, open water, and volcanic backdrops
- Hikers and walkers: from lakeside strolls to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Alpine and mountain fans: access to Mount Ruapehu and Tongariro National Park
- Easy-going families: space to roam, gentle activities, and an unhurried pace
- Road trippers: scenic and logical stop on a North Island self-drive route.
Hawke's Bay
There is so much more to this region than just wine, but this is what the region is primarily famous for due to its long hours of sunshine and fertile soil. With over 100 wineries to visit either by car or by bike, its the perfect place to while away a relaxed day sampling some of the best wines in the world!
Known for its relaxed pace, coastal scenery, and strong sense of local character. Beyond its vineyards, the region offers Art Deco architecture in Napier, sweeping views from Te Mata Peak, golden beaches, and scenic cycling trails that wind through orchards and rivers. Visitors can explore farmers’ markets, coastal headlands like Cape Kidnappers, and lively food spots showcasing fresh, local produce. With its mix of heritage, nature, and easygoing lifestyle, Hawke’s Bay is a rewarding stop for travellers who enjoy warm weather and unhurried exploration.
Highlights of Hawke's Bay:
- Art Deco Napier: beautifully preserved 1930s architecture and guided heritage walks
- Te Mata Peak: panoramic views over vineyards, coastline, and rolling farmland
- Cape Kidnappers: dramatic coastal scenery and the famous gannet colony
- Coastal cycling trails: flat, scenic routes through orchards, rivers, and seaside paths
- Local food scene: farmers’ markets, farm-to-table dining, and artisan producers
- Beaches & coastline: long sandy beaches and relaxed seaside spots.
Perfect for:
- Food-motivated travellers: those who plan days around markets, local produce, and memorable meals
- Architecture and design enthusiasts: particularly visitors drawn to Napier’s Art Deco heritage and storytelling
- Cyclists who ride for scenery, not speed, with beautiful trails through orchards, rivers, and coastline
- Couples or small groups: travellers who enjoy relaxed days, good conversation, and evenings centred on food and atmosphere
- Sun-seekers: clients who value warm weather, open landscapes, and an easy coastal lifestyle
- Repeat New Zealand visitors: ideal for those wanting something refined and local after the headline sights.
Practical Information for Agents
Driving Tips
Driving in New Zealand is generally simple and easy, with well-maintained roads which are well-signed. The main difference in the North Island is that outside of main cities such as Auckland and Wellington, there are no highways! Two lane roads are the norm, and can be twisty and mountainous in certain areas, so it is crucial to leave with plenty of time, as journeys make take longer than clients are used to.
Wellington → Taupo: 5 hours
Wellington → Napier: 4 hours
Taupo → Rotorua: 1 hour
Rotorua → Tauranga: 2 hours
Tauranga → Auckland: 3 hours
Auckland → Bay of Islands: 3 hours
Need To Know
Maori Culture
With over 75% of Maori population living on the North Island, Maori culture is beautifully prevalent, and clients can have the opportunity to learn more about it. Some key words include:
- Marae: sacred meeing house
- Iwi: tribe
- Whanau: family
- Kia Ora: hello/goodbye
Some key cultural aspects to note is that clients should always take their shoes off when entering a marae, not to sit on tables, and that heads are sacred, so are not to be touched. Any effort to learn how to prounounce Maori names correctly will be much appreciated.
Mobile Service
There is great mobile coverage in towns and cities, but it can be patchy in more rural regions such as Northland and Coromandel Peninsula, as well as the Tongariro National Park, so download maps and directions when you still have signal/Wifi. The emergency number for New Zealand is 111.
Booking Advice
It is crucial to book popular locations like the Bay of Islands and Coromandel early, especially during peak season. Famous day trips such as Hobbiton, Waitomo Glow Worm Caves and Maori cultural experiences will all sell out fast in summer so it pays to lock clients' dates in to confirm booking.
When To Travel
December to February
Shoulder
March to May & September to November
Often considered the best time to visit, the shoulder seasons offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds and excellent value. Autumn (March–May) brings settled weather, autumn colours and ideal conditions for touring, hiking and food and wine experiences. Spring (September–November) sees landscapes come alive with fresh greenery, lambs in the fields and blooming gardens, particularly in regions like Waikato and Taranaki. These months are perfect for travellers seeking comfort, scenic beauty and a more relaxed pace.
Off-peak
June to August
Winter in the North Island is cooler but generally mild compared to many destinations. It offers a quieter time for travel, with fewer visitors and a more local feel. Thermal regions such as Rotorua and Taupo are especially appealing in winter, with steaming geothermal pools and crisp mornings.
Unique Selling Points
Huge diversity in a small area: From the geothermal geysers in Rotorua, lush rainforest in the Bay of Plenty, crystal clear ocean in the Bay of Islands and buzzing nightlife and culture in the main cities, the North Island offers clients a diverse holiday without having to travel huge distances.
Self-drive ease: The North Island is one of the best (if not the best!) self drive destinations in the world, offering clients the flexibility and freedom to travel at their own pace. With viewpoints, campsites and picturesque stopping points aplenty, a self drive itinerary is easy to sell and easy to execute.
Food and wine that punches above its weight: Clients might (wrongly) assume that the Kiwi food and drink scene cannot match that of Europe - wrong! Wine connoisseurs will enjoy the variety that regions such as Hawke's Bay has to offer, and the fresh seafood available by the coast and in Auckland's top restaurants is hard to beat.
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