BEST North Island Tourist Attractions

Here’s a list of some of the BEST North Island tourist attractions in New Zealand. The North Island of New Zealand is an enchanting tourist destination that is known for its awe-inspiring geothermal wonders, lively cities bustling with vibrant energy, rich Maori culture, and breathtakingly beautiful coastlines. Prepare to be captivated as we take you on a journey through some of the most sought-after tourist attractions that North Island has to offer.

North Island Tourist Attractions Map & Trip Planner

Explore the best tourist attractions of North Island with the help of our Google Maps. Get directions to your desired destination and enjoy your North Island self-drive tour.

Pre-planned North Island Tour Packages

Choose from a variety of North Island tours & itineraries to suit your interests and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely road trip or an action-packed adventure, there’s a perfect tour to match your style. Looking for a tailor-made New Zealand tour? Contact us!

You´ll ❤️ these 20 great things to see & do…

1. Cape Reinga: The Must-Visit Destination on New Zealand’s North Island

Cape Reinga, located in New Zealand’s North Island, is a must-visit destination known for its stunning landscapes and cultural significance. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of this region.

If you’re looking for a destination that combines breathtaking landscapes with cultural significance, then Cape Reinga in North Island should be on your must-visit list. This enchanting place offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich heritage of this region. One of the main highlights of Cape Reinga is its stunning landscapes. As you approach the cape, you’ll be greeted by rolling dunes that seem to stretch out endlessly into the horizon.

According to Māori mythology, this is where spirits depart from this world to enter their ancestral homeland. You can learn more about these ancient beliefs through guided tours and interactive experiences that showcase Māori traditions and customs.

2. Hot Water Beach, Coromandel Peninsula

Hot Water Beach, nestled along the eastern coast of the Coromandel Peninsula on New Zealand’s North Island, is a geological marvel and a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique beach experience. What sets Hot Water Beach apart is its natural hot springs, which bubble up through the sand at low tide, allowing visitors to create their hot pools right on the beach. This extraordinary phenomenon draws visitors from around the world, eager to dig into the sand and soak in the warmth while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a memorable natural wonder, Hot Water Beach promises an unforgettable experience on the shores of New Zealand’s North Island.

3. The iconic Cathedral Cove – Coromandel Peninsula

Known for its pristine beaches, hot water beach, and the iconic Cathedral Cove, the Coromandel Peninsula is a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.

4. Auckland Sky Tower, SkyWalk & Sky Tower Jump

Enjoy panoramic views of Auckland from the Sky Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere, and try the SkyWalk or SkyJump for an adrenaline rush.

5. Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Explore the magical underground world of Waitomo, known for its limestone caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms.

6. Hobbiton Movie Set

Located near Matamata, this movie set brings the fictional world of Hobbiton from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” to life.

7. Exploring the Natural Marvels of White Island

Did you know the Bay of Plenty in New Zealand is home to the country’s most active cone volcano? This White Island tour is an unforgettable experience, so seize the opportunity and go for it!

8. Rotorua’s Healing Geothermal Waters

Famous for its geothermal activity, Rotorua offers geysers, hot springs, and mud pools. It’s also a hub for Maori culture and traditional performances.

• Polynesian Spa Deluxe Rotorua
• Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
• The Hell’s Gate Experience – Mud Bath & Spas

9. Waimangu Geothermal Valley – The World’s Youngest Geothermal System

Waimangu Geothermal Valley is a remarkable geothermal area located on North Island. It is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant geothermal activity, and unique ecosystems. Visitors to Waimangu Geothermal Valley can explore the colorful hot springs, steaming fumaroles, and boiling mud pools that make this area truly one-of-a-kind. The valley is a living showcase of the Earth’s power and beauty, offering a glimpse into the forces that shape our planet. Whether you’re a nature lover, a geology enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, Waimangu Geothermal Valley is a must-visit destination.

10. Redwoods Nightlights in Rotorua

Forest and fantasy come to life within this magical illuminated evening treewalk. Redwoods Nightlights™ is one of New Zealand’s top design-led tourism experiences. Set high amongst the giant redwood trees, 30 exquisite lanterns float above the forest floor.

11. Orakei Korako Geothermal Wonderland

Orakei Korako, located on the North Island of New Zealand, is a geothermal wonderland that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Tucked away in the Taupo Volcanic Zone, this hidden gem boasts one of the most extensive geothermal areas in the country. Accessible by boat or a short ferry ride across Lake Ohakuri, Orakei Korako unveils a surreal landscape of bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and vibrant silica terraces, all set against the backdrop of lush native bush. The highlight of the experience is undoubtedly the “Hidden Valley,” a pristine geothermal area renowned for its colorful silica terraces, which form intricate patterns and pools of turquoise, green, and orange hues. As visitors wander along the wooden walkways, they’re immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of this geothermal wonderland, offering a captivating glimpse into the Earth’s geological forces at work.

12. Tongariro Alpine Crossing – Tongariro National Park

Home to the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, this national park features dramatic volcanic landscapes, including Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe.

13. Waitangi Treaty Grounds in Bay of Islands

This scenic region in the Far North is known for its beautiful islands, historic sites like Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and water activities such as sailing and dolphin watching.

14. Napier Art Deco

The city of Napier is famous for its Art Deco architecture, which rose from the ashes of the 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake. The annual Art Deco Festival is a popular event.

15. Whanganui River Experience

Explore the Whanganui River by jet boat or canoe, and experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of the region.

16. Wellington Sightseeing Tour & Wellington Cable Car

New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, is known for its vibrant arts scene, coffee culture, and the scenic Wellington Cable Car. Experience the hidden charm that Wellington has to offer and take a five-minute ride from the heart of the city center, up through the hillside terraced houses to the lookout perched high above the city.

17. Te Papa Tongarewa – Museum of New Zealand

Located in Wellington, Te Papa is the national museum, showcasing New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural heritage.

18. Weta Workshop Experience in Wellington

Weta Workshop is an Academy Award-winning creative design and practical effects company that services the world’s creative industries. Tour guides are storytellers taking you on an epic journey through the imagination. 

45-minute Weta Cave Workshop Tour:

From The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit to Avatar and District 9: learn about props, costumes, and creatures created for your favorite films. Interact with cool stuff from the creative departments and catch an artist at work on the tour stage.

45-minute Miniature Effects Tour:

Discover the filmmaking techniques of miniature effects and learn how they are built for hit TV and film productions. Wander through monumental miniatures from Thunderbirds Are Go and see how we fit an entire island, cityscape, and mansion under one roof!

19. Zealandia by Day & Night Tour

ZEALANDIA is an immersive venture into New Zealand’s wildlife. Located just 13 minutes from downtown Wellington, the eco-sanctuary is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary animals.

Enjoy all the sights and sounds of Zealandia during the daytime with an experienced guide who will lead you through the sanctuary valley. See a wide range of native New Zealand birds at their most active. Witness the highly intelligent kākā (bush parrot), kakariki, tūī and bellbirds at feeding stations positioned along the sanctuary’s walkways. You may also see the critically endangered takahē, the busy tīeke (saddleback), the bright hihi, the tuatara, and the green gecko.

During your evening tour your guide will lead you through the sanctuary valley by torchlight, searching for the distinctive sights and sounds of the New Zealand native forest to experience many of the rare and endangered species that only come out at night. Possible sights include kiwi foraging on the forest floor, tuatara hunting for food, glow-worms shining, tiny Maud Island frogs in their enclosure, and kākā (parrots) coming in to roost.

20. Kapiti Island Marine Reserve

Kapiti Island is one of New Zealand’s most important Nature Reserves, rich in conservation activity and history. Learn about the flora and fauna on a one-hour guided walk where you can expect to see some of New Zealand’s most beautiful and endangered birds.

All these North Island tourist attractions highlight the diverse experiences and landscapes that make the New Zealand a compelling destination for travelers. 

All the BEST North Island Self drive and Coach Tours >