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North Island Holidays

Overview

experiences

Cities & Regions

North Island holidays in New Zealand

Though smaller than neighbouring South Island, the North Island packs in a full spectrum of sights and experiences. From cosmopolitan cities and authentic opportunities to engage in Maori culture to amazing geothermal activity and a sublime combination of forests, mountains and beaches. North Island is totally captivating.

New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland nestles between two harbours, the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea and the Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean. Aside from the urban side of life, which Auckland does very well, it’s just half an hour from beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands.

Quirky Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, is a compact city with a...

Enthralling cites
Relaxed pace of Northland
Beautiful Coromandel Peninsula
Culture of Rotorua
Lord of the Rings film locations
Hawke’s Bay wine region
Activities galore

North Island Travel Guide

Best time to go

North Island is the warmer of the two islands as it is closer to the equator and enjoys a subtropical climate with winter temperatures of around 6ºC and summers, a comfortable average of 23ºC. While very much a year round destination, either October and November or March and April are considered the best months to visit.

Travel Information

Auckland is approximately 24½ hours from the UK (including a stopover). Key areas on the island have domestic airports or are within an easy drive.

Local currency

New Zealand dollar

Cities & Regions in North Island

Our recommendations for the best places to visit in North Island.

Rotorua

Sitting within the Pacific Rim of Fire, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland known for its bubbling mud pools, clouds of steam, shooting geysers and natural hot springs perfect for bathing and relaxing in.

Wellington

Located on the south western tip of North Island, the national capital has firmly established itself as a destination for visitors thanks to an abundance of arts and cultural events and an increasingly innovative culinary scene.

Bay of Islands

This aquatic playground is lavishly scattered with 144 islands, clear blue waters, a myriad of secluded beaches and a handful of towns.

Rest of North Island

The diverse attractions continue throughout the rest of North Island and include the beautiful beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula, the largest lake in New Zealand – Taupo, the scenic splendours of Tongariro National Park, the glorious Hawke's Bay wine region and the beautifully preserved 1930s art deco architecture of Napier.

Auckland

Far more than just a gateway to the country's blockbuster scenery Auckland, or the City of Sails as it's often called, is New Zealand's largest and most diverse city, which brims with things to see and do.

Unmissable Experiences

Showing 14 experiences in North Island

Tongariro Crossing

This 12 mile trek is New Zealand’s best one day walk. The landscape on Tongariro is peppered with craters, volcanic rocks, mountain springs and brightly coloured emerald lakes.

from

£164

Geothermal Wonderland

This morning tour from Rotorua shows you the gushing geysers, boiling mud pools and mineral terraces of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Continue with a 2 hour Waimangu Volcanic Valley nature walk amidst stunning scenery with views of hot crater lakes, steaming cliffs and more.

from

£92

Weta Workshop Experience

Dive head-first into a world of movie magic in Wellington on a guided 90 minute tour. Explore real props, costumes and creatures from films including Avatar and The Hobbit. Discover model making and miniature effects.

from

£30

Northern Explorer Train

The Northern Explorer rumbles through the heart of North Island on an epic journey allowing you to experience New Zealand’s extremes of scenery, from Waikato's fertile farmlands to the Central Plateau's volcanic peaks and the sparkling Kapiti coast. Carriages have spacious reclining seats and panoramic windows. The train also has an open-air carriage for uninterrupted views and a licensed cafe. All journeys available in reverse. Auckland to Wellington takes about 10½ hours; or Auckland to National Park takes 5½ hours. Departs Monday, Thursday & Saturday from Auckland.

from

£92

(Auckland to National Park one way) or £149 (Auckland to Wellington one way)

Hobbiton Movie Set

This 2 hour tour from Waikato includes a fully guided walking tour at the original location where Hobbiton was created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.

from

£54

Wilderness Adventure Walk

Full day adventure walk from the Coromandel into tranquil and remote rainforest surrounded by giant rock faces, rugged volcanic peaks and ancient trees. Requires moderate to high level of fitness. Picture credit: Kiwi Dundee Tours

from

£192

(inc picnic lunch)

Te Puia Steambox & Blueys

This 3 hour guided tour from Rotorua includes access to the Kiwi Conservation Centre, insights into Indigenous art & craft and special access to picnic beneath the raw power of Pohutu geyser.

from

£77

(inc lunch)

Auckland City Revealed

This 3 hour tour from Auckland includes the CBD, picturesque Ponsonby and a drive over the Harbour Bridge to North Shore for a beach stroll. Drive up to the summit of Mt Victoria then view Westhaven Marina.

from

£49

Zealandia by Day

An informative 2 hour walk through the picturesque Zealandia sanctuary to witness the native wildlife that is once again living on the mainland. Available from Wellington.

from

£32

Interislander Ferry

The Interislander ferry is one of New Zealand's unmissable great journeys, sailing between Wellington and Picton. It’s a truly iconic experience. There is the option to travel as a foot passenger, with upgrades available to the Plus Lounge for a more refined journey or, travel with your car (some car rental companies require you to drop your vehicle off and pick up another on arrival). Each vessel has stacks to keep you busy with a family lounge, a cafe and bar. Journey is available in reverse. Wellington (North Island) to Picton (South Island) takes around 3½ hours. Three ferries depart daily from both Wellington and Picton with departures throughout the day.

from

£49

(Wellington to Picton one way)

Waitangi Treaty Ground Experience Pass

Travel from the Bay of Islands for an enlightening journey through history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. See the Treaty House, the carved meeting house and the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe.

from

£31

Mitai Maori Cultural Experience

This evening tour from Rotorua includes a tour of the native forest and sacred natural spring plus a cultural performance, with songs, dance and Haka.

from

£74

(inc dinner)

Whale & Dolphin Conservation Cruise

A half day cruise from Auckland seeking out exciting whale and dolphin activity in the Hauraki Gulf. Picture credit: Auckland Safari Cruises

from

£86

All Blacks Experience

Rugby fans will love the 45 minute guided tour at this Auckland attraction. Hear of New Zealand’s deep passion for the sport, experience the haka and try out your kicking, catching and line-out skills. Picture credit: All Blacks Experience

from

£29

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We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and strive to offer the best service possible. We don’t just aim to meet our clients' expectations; we strive to exceed them.

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