North Island

North Island Regions

North Island is an easy destination to explore, offering a warm climate, stunning scenery, and rich cultural experiences. The island stretches from the subtropical far north to the volcanic landscapes at its center, giving travelers a wide variety of sights and activities to enjoy.

The Bay of Islands is a great starting point, renowned for its calm beaches, island cruises, and historic sites, including the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. In Auckland, you’ll find a lively mix of restaurants, harbors, and museums, along with nearby beaches and vineyards.

Further south, Rotorua is one of the most popular stops on the North Island. It’s famous for bubbling mud pools, geysers, hot springs, and strong Māori cultural traditions. Nearby, the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata offers a fun, scenic experience for film fans.

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves provide a peaceful, magical underground adventure, where thousands of glowworms light up the dark caverns. For outdoor lovers, Tongariro National Park features dramatic volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

Travelers can easily add optional North Island day tours, activities, and attractions to their itinerary. These are perfect for filling free days and can be worked into both pre-planned and tailor-made trips. Whether you enjoy nature, culture, adventure, or relaxed sightseeing, the North Island has something for every type of traveler.

Things to Do in North Island

Auckland ○ Bay of Plenty ○ Coromandel ○ Gisborne & Eastland ○ Hamilton – Waikato ○ Hawke’s Bay ○ Manawatu – Wanganui ○ Napier ○ New Plymouth ○ Northland & Bay of Islands ○ Rotorua ○ Ruapehu ○ Taranaki ○ Taupo ○ Tauranga & Mount Maunganui ○ Wellington & Wairarapa

BEST 15 North Island Day Tours & Tourist Attractions

Mount Hikurangi, North Island, Photo: Eric Hanson

North Island Attractions Map & Trip Planner

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

North Island Map & Regions

North Island New Zealand Map - Day Tours

Featured North Island Tour Packages

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Every day a different journey: North Island 100% Pure New Zealand

Find Your Perfect Activity

Eden Park Stadium Tour in Auckland

Eden Park Gate G entrance, Auckland Golf & Other Sports City Tours Family & Kids

90 minutes

Price:Included in your tour package

Go behind the scenes of New Zealand’s most iconic stadium on the Eden Park Stadium Tour in Auckland. Explore exclusive areas, including the players’ tunnel, coaches’ box, and hallowed field, while learning about the stadium’s rich history in rugby and cricket. Perfect for sports fans, this guided tour offers a unique glimpse into the heart

Parasail Flight – Bay of Islands

Parasail Flight - Bay of Islands Boat Cruises & Water Activities

1-1.5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Soar high above the stunning Bay of Islands on an unforgettable parasailing adventure. Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views as you glide peacefully up to 1,200 feet above the water. Fly solo, tandem, or even triple, making it a perfect experience for thrill-seekers and families alike. With a smooth takeoff and landing from the boat, this is

Hundertwasser Art Centre – Whangarei

Northland & Bay of Islands Heritage & Art

60-90 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Discover the Hundertwasser Art Centre in Whangārei, a stunning architectural masterpiece celebrating the visionary artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. This vibrant, eco-friendly building features undulating floors, lush rooftop gardens, and bold, colorful designs. Explore original Hundertwasser artworks, the Wairau Māori Art Gallery, and immerse yourself in a unique fusion of art, nature, and sustainability. A must-visit cultural

Perfect Day Ocean Cruise – Tutukaka

Northland & Bay of Islands Boat Cruises & Water Activities

5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Set sail on the Perfect Day Ocean Cruise from Tutukaka and explore the breathtaking Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve. Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sightseeing in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Relax on a spacious cruise boat with delicious food, warm hospitality, and stunning coastal views. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, this all-inclusive

Hole in the Rock Landing by Helicopter Experience

Paihia helipad, Bay of Islands Scenic Flights

35 minutes

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Take to the skies on a breathtaking helicopter flight to the iconic Hole in the Rock in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy spectacular aerial views of the coastline before landing on Motukōkako Island, an experience few get to enjoy. Explore this sacred site with exclusive access, learn about its Māori heritage, and take in the

Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

Paihia Wharf Boat Cruises & Water Activities

Flexible

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Embark on an unforgettable Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise in the Bay of Islands. Sail through crystal-clear waters, past scenic islands, and spot dolphins, whales, and marine wildlife. Cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako Island, where, conditions permitting, your boat will sail through the natural rock arch. Learn about the

Cape Reinga Fly Drive Tour from Bay of Islands

Northland & Bay of Islands Scenic Flights

5 hours

Price:Included In Your Tour Package

Cape Reinga Fly-Drive Tour from the Bay of Islands Fly to the tip of New Zealand and back in a single unforgettable day. This Cape Reinga fly-drive tour combines scenic flightseeing with a guided ground tour, giving you the best of Northland without hours spent on winding roads. Enjoy complimentary pickup from central Paihia accommodation,

The Buried Village of Te Wairoa: A Window into New Zealand’s Volcanic Past

1180 Tarawera Road, Lake Tarawera, Rotorua Museums Heritage & Art

2 hours

Price:Included in your tour package

Discover the Echoes of History: The Ultimate Guide to the Buried Village Rotorua Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s breathtaking thermal region, the Buried Village Rotorua (Te Wairoa) stands as a poignant and powerful reminder of the devastating 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption. Located just 15 kilometers from the bustling city of Rotorua, this premier

Kauri Museum – Matakohe Experience

Matakohe Museums Heritage & Art

Flexible

Price:Included in your tour package

Journey into the Heart of the Forest: The Kauri Museum Matakohe If you want to understand the soul of New Zealand’s Northland, a visit to the Kauri Museum Matakohe is an essential experience. Located just ninety Island minutes north of Auckland, this award-winning destination tells the incredible story of the mighty kauri tree. These ancient

Best of Both Worlds Tour – Auckland

Auckland Nature City Tours

8.5 Hours

Price:Included in your tour package

Morning City Tour Start your day with an immersive Auckland city tour. Delve into the rich history and vibrant sights of the city, making stops at iconic landmarks such as The Auckland Domain, Devonport, and Westhaven Marina. Each location offers a unique perspective on the city’s past and present, blending urban excitement with historical charm.