Things to do in  North Island

New Zealand’s North Island is known for the geothermal geysers and mud pools in Rotorua, its Maori culture, Bay of Islands beaches, multicultural Auckland, and Wellington, its small capital. It’s also New Zealand’s population center, as more than 75 percent of the population lives here.

You can holiday almost anywhere on the North Island, as there are many beaches, mountain areas, towns, cities, and a few national parks. Popular North Island travel destinations include the Bay of Islands, Auckland, Waiheke Island, Rotorua, Taupo, Coromandel Peninsula, Tongariro National Park, Napier-Hastings, and Wellington.

Driving the length of the North Island, from Cape Reinga to Wellington, would take around 14 hours. However, most visitors don’t make this trip in one go. Places along the way that are worth stopping at include Auckland, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, and Kapiti coast.

No, the North Island is not better than the South Island. Both islands contain a wealth of attractions that travelers enjoy. Some people prefer the culture, beaches, and geothermal attractions of the North Island, while others prefer the mountains and wilderness areas of the sparsely populated South Island.

Cape Reinga is at the top of the North Island. There’s a lighthouse and walkways down to beautiful, rugged beaches. It’s culturally significant to the local Maori. Although it’s not quite at the northernmost point of the North Island, Ninety Mile Beach is another popular attraction in far northern Northland.

Yes, the North Island is worth visiting. There are many things to see and do here, no matter your tastes or preferences. Enjoy the beaches of the Bay of Islands and Coromandel Peninsula, hike through the Tongariro National Park, marvel at Rotorua’s geothermal activity, and more.