Top Things To Do Around The North Island of New Zealand

There's much more than you could squeeze into one modest road trip, from the delicious food and wine of Auckland and Hawke's Bay to the geothermal mud pools of Rotorua and the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro National Park, the north-south drive from Auckland to Wellington truly has it all.

To kick things off, here's a few tips to start us on our way.

• Driving by rental car is by far the best way to get around New Zealand. Drive from Auckland to Rotorua and see Hamilton, Hobbiton and Coromandel. Don't forget the famous Waitomo glow worm caves.
• There's plenty to entertain kids from adventure parks, hikes, mountain biking and heading to Hobbiton.
• Auckland has plenty for the adventurous. Kayak to a volcanic Island or base-jump off Sky Tower. In Rotorua you can visit the Skyline Luge and the Velocity Valley Adventure Park.
• Rotorua and Lake Taupō offer shooting geyers and natural hot springs, including the colourful Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.
• Rotorua is the heartland of Māori culture and a visit to the Te Puia cultural centre is a must. Go for a kayak at Lake Taupo for incredible Māori rock carvings.
• The North island is a foodie heaven with everything from high end dining to cheap eats. In Auckland, head to the Queen's Rooftop & Wineshop and Orbit 360 in Sky Tower for upscale options or visit Elliott Stables and Giapo for ice cream.
• Only a 40 minute ferry away from Auckland is Waiheke Island which has incredible wineries. For craft beer, Wellington's Garage Project is your place!
• Getting from the North to the South Island is quick and easy with the Interislander ferry going from Wellington to Picton four times daily. 

You know that feeling when you're watching a movie and you think, "I need to go there"? Well, the North Island is pretty much a live-action version of that. Starting with the star of the show for many, the Hobbiton Movie Set. Tucked away in the central North Island, this isn't just a film set; it's a meticulously crafted piece of cinematic history that will make any fan of Middle-Earth feel like they've stepped right into the Shire. You can wander past the hobbit holes, visit the Green Dragon Inn, and soak up the magical atmosphere. It's an absolute must-do, even if you’re not a die-hard fan.

For those who prefer their landscapes a little more… natural and a lot more fiery, Tongariro National Park is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and an absolute showstopper. Within this national park lies one of the most famous walking trails in New Zealand, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It’s a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you past the dramatic, otherworldly landscapes of Mount Ngauruhoe (aka Mount Doom) and the stunning Emerald Lakes. This isn't just a walk; it’s an epic journey through some of the planet’s most unique geological formations. It’s a testament to the North Island’s raw, untamed beauty.

After all that volcanic activity you'll be ready for some sea air. Specifically, the Coromandel Peninsula. This is where you’ll find Cathedral Cove, a gorgeous beach with a famous natural archway carved by the sea. It’s a photographer's dream and a perfect spot for a coastal walk. But the real hidden gem here? Visit Hot Water Beach at low tide with a spade and, as its name suggests, you can dig your own geothermal hot springs right in the sand. It’s ridiculously good fun and a quintessential North Island experience.

And speaking of natural wonders, the Bay of Islands is another top contender. Here you'll find over 140 islands, pristine beaches, and a rich history. A boat tour is the best way to explore this area, and a must-do is a visit to the Poor Knights Islands, a world-renowned marine reserve and one of the best dive sites on the planet.

Finally, no trip to the North Island is complete without seeing the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. A guided tour takes you through a system of caves where thousands of tiny glowworms light up the ceiling like a starry night sky. It’s a surreal and peaceful cave tour that feels like something out of a fantasy novel.

New Zealand isn’t a quick day-trip destination. To truly experience the breadth of what the North Island has to offer, you’re going to want at least 10 to 14 days. This gives you enough time to not just hit the major North Island attractions but also to explore some of the hidden gems.

You can take your time on the road trip, stop at small towns, and really get a feel for the local vibe. A shorter trip (say, 7 days) would be a whirlwind tour of the main spots, but you'd miss out on the chance to truly soak it all in. This is New Zealand, the journey is more than half the fun!

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, the North Island is your playground. The options are endless, but here are a few you can't miss.

First up, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is hands-down one of the best day hikes in the world. As mentioned before, the views are absolutely stunning. It's a challenging 19.4-kilometre hike, so it's not for the faint of heart, but the scenery makes every step worth it.

For something a little less strenuous but just as beautiful, the walking trails along the Coromandel Peninsula are fantastic. The coastal walks offer incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and lead to secluded, gorgeous beaches.

And let's not forget the famous Piha Beach on the Tasman Sea coast, with its dramatic black sand and Lion Rock. It's a popular spot for surfers and offers some of the wildest coastal scenery there is on the North Island's west coast.

Further north, you can try sandboarding down the massive Te Paki Sand Dunes. This is a North Island adventure that promises a good dose of fun and adrenaline. It's a completely different landscape from the rest of New Zealand and a brilliant way to spend an afternoon.

And for those who want to get on the water, a boat tour in the Bay of Islands is a must. You can go kayaking, sailing, or even dolphin watching. The clear waters and stunning beaches make it a perfect place for water sports.

For those who love chasing waterfalls, Bridal Veil Falls is a hidden gem you should check out. It's just a short walk from the car park and well worth the visit to see the stunning 55-metre waterfall. And if you're a keen hiker, exploring the walking trails in Egmont National Park offers some incredible views of Mount Taranaki.

Family holidays are all about making memories, and the North Island has plenty of experiences that kids of all ages will love.

Rotorua is a fantastic choice for families. It’s the epicentre of geothermal wonders and Māori culture. Kids will be fascinated by the bubbling mud pools, the Lady Knox Geyser, and the vibrant colours of Champagne Pool at the geothermal hot springs. The city also offers luge rides, canopy tours, and plenty of other activities that will keep the kids entertained.

Another great spot is Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake. You can take a boat out to see the Māori rock carvings, go fishing, or just enjoy a dip in the clear water. The town itself is a great base for exploring the central North Island and offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.

For a classic beach holiday, the Bay of Islands is perfect. The beautiful beaches are safe for swimming, and there are countless activities like kayaking and sailing. It's a great place to introduce kids to New Zealand history and get them excited about the outdoors.

And of course, Hobbiton is a huge hit with families. It's just an hour's drive from Rotorua and seeing the Shire come to life is a magical experience for both kids and adults. The guided tour is engaging and the scenery will give your iphone a workout.

While the natural scenery is the main draw, the North Island also has some amazing cities that are well worth your time.

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand and a fantastic starting point for your adventure. It’s a bustling coastal city with a beautiful harbour, great food, and plenty of cultural activities. You can take a ferry to Waiheke Island for the day, or climb Mount Eden for views of the city. The city centre hums with culture and is a great place to start a New Zealand trip.

Wellington, the capital city, is known for its creative energy, incredible coffee, and vibrant arts scene. It's nestled between rolling hills and the beautiful Wellington Harbour, and a walk up to the Mount Victoria Lookout offers a panoramic view of the city. Wellington has a cool, creative edge and a must-visit for anyone who loves good food and counter-culture.

Rotorua is another must-visit. While it’s a hub for outdoor activities and cultural experiences, it’s also a charming city with beautiful parks and a relaxed atmosphere. And although the smell of volcanic sulphur is a little confronting at first (you get used to it), it's a city that immediately feels like home.

A good holiday is just as much about the food and wine as it is about the scenery. And the North Island delivers on both fronts.

Waiheke Island is just a quick ferry ride from Auckland and an absolute must for wine lovers. It's home to a number of world-class vineyards, and the climate is perfect for growing grapes. You can spend a day hopping between vineyards like Cable Bay Vineyards and Kennedy Point Vineyard, tasting incredible wines while enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a day trip that feels like a holiday in itself.

The Hawke's Bay region on the east coast is another fantastic wine region. Known for its chardonnays and merlots, it's one of the oldest wine regions in New Zealand and a great place for a cycling tour of the vineyards. The area is full of gorgeous beaches and a thriving food scene.

In Wellington, the capital city, the food scene is buzzing. From fine dining to food trucks, there's something for everyone. It's a city that takes its coffee and craft beer very seriously, and you’ll find plenty of cozy cafes and lively bars. It's the perfect place to refuel after a day of exploring.

What can we say, we love the North Island of New Zealand! This incredible isle is a powerhouse of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. From the geothermal wonders of the central North Island to the stunning beaches of the east coast, it's a destination that will surprise and delight you at every turn. New Zealand is such a beautiful country. Whether you're looking for an epic road trip or a relaxing getaway, this part of Aotearoa has got you covered.

Are you ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime? Your centre for travel has it all.