With its easy going culture, calm inducing cities and a wealth of natural wonders including amazing volcanic peaks, glorious beaches, picturesque lakes and magnificent examples of geysers and hot springs, add to this fascinating ski areas, historic Maori sites, and numerous marine and national parks, New Zealand’s North Island has long been a source of adventure.
The smaller of the two main islands of New Zealand, and as its name indicates the northernmost of the two islands, North Island is a truly dreamscape tourist destination that never fails to amaze. Here we have piled up some of the most popular ‘to see’ and ‘to do’ things in North Island that promise holidaymakers unforgettable memories and endless discovering opportunities. Explore North Island with car hire service, which will give you the unique opportunity to experience all this special getaway has to offer in your own time and at your own pace!
Auckland
Spanning a vast area from Pakiri in the north to Bombay in the south and known as the ‘City of Sails,’ Auckland is a city of breathtaking scenery, enchanting holiday islands, authentic food and wine, vibrant shopping and exciting nightlife. As the site of the major international airport, Auckland is most visitors’ starting point of the country and though the downtown area is relatively small, there is so much to see and do that a day or two won’t cover them all.
To get under Auckland’s skin, make sure to visit Auckland Museum, featuring a regularly changing program of exhibitions and events; sail on the Waitemata Harbor; enjoy a dinner in the Viaduct; plan a trip to the stunning pristine Great Barrier Island; catch an iconic Auckland event; surf at Piha and this is just the beginning. Well worth a visit are also the luxurious Skycity Tower and Casino, offering spectacular views of the city and nearby islands; the scenic Waitekare Ranges National Park; and the exhilarating Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World ideal for those who are holidaying with kids.
Bay of Islands
Another top holiday destination in New Zealand, the Bay of Islands combines great outdoor experiences with some of the country’s most significant historic sites. Considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation, that is when the Maori and Europeans arrived to the region, the Bay of Islands is also one of the finest sub-tropical maritime parks, blessed with 144 islands and abundant marine and bird life. Whether you want to keep your feet on the ground or explore the picture-perfect underwater wonders, the Bay of Islands offers plenty recreational activities to keep you busy all day long. The Bay with its pristine natural environment is also the gathering place in the South Pacific for overseas sailing yachts on world cruises, as well as for golfers and diving fans.
Rotorua
Rotorua is a place that provides an entirely different experience. Aside from the spectacularly beautiful landscapes of this volcanic-shaped wonderland, the 16 amazing lakes in the region and the wide range of native flora, Rotorua is a geothermal haven of skyrocketing geysers, hot springs and boiling mud pools and the cultural heartland of Maori. It is also a big trout fishing area that attracts many visitors from around the world. Within a few minutes of the city one can fine Rotorua’s best loved attraction – the genuine Paradise Valley Springs Wildlife Park, nestled in a beautiful native bush. Relax and enjoy the freshness of this exclusively maintained park as you stroll along the superb walkaways, which are wheelchair accessible. Visit the geothermal areas for a truly majestic display of the natural wonders of this region.
Not to be missed are also Tongariro National Park, Wellington – New Zealand’s capital built around the harbor with dynamic theater scene and superb café ad bar culture; White Island, the country’s only active marine volcano and Waitomo Caves, promising ultimate caving adventures.