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Northland, New ZealandNorthland Regional Information

Northland | Regional Information | Activity Highlights | Scenic Highlights | History



Northland is a gold, green and blue world of beaches, bays and subtropical pleasures. Relax and unwind while you discover the stories of New Zealand's early history.

Northland Overview

Northland, New Zealand
Northland, New Zealand

The region of Northland and the Bay of Islands stretches north from Auckland, towards the warm waters of Polynesia, the ancestral home of New Zealand's first inhabitants.

The relaxed, sunny lifestyle of Northland springs from its subtropical climate and the myriad of beautiful islands, bays and beaches around the coastline.

The people of the North have a passion for water sport—surfing, boating, game fishing, sailing and diving. They also have a deep appreciation of the region's fascinating Māori and European history.

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Northland Highlights

It is believed that the first Polynesian voyagers arrived in this region during the 11th century, but it wasn't until after the landing of the British sea voyager Captain Cook in 1769 that missionaries, whalers and traders arrived.

The Treaty of Waitangi, the document that founded bicultural New Zealand, was signed in the Bay of Islands in 1840. The legacy of Northland's earliest European settlers can be seen in the form of historical buildings and museums that provide a unique insight into colonial New Zealand.

Much of Northlands' extensive coastline remains unspoilt—an aquatic playground for adventure activities and escapist relaxation. Whangarei and Opua are renowned throughout the Pacific as attractive havens for yachts.

You'll find that Māori culture is still very much alive in this region (32 percent of the population are Māori), and you'll also enjoy the shopping, dining and entertainment possibilities that stem from the distinctive local culture—which embraces art, creativity, organic farming and alternative thinking.

Main Centres in Northland

Image Source: Tourism New Zealand. Diving at Cavalli Islands, Northland, New Zealand
Diving at Cavalli Islands
Northland
Photographer: Legend Photography
(www.andybelcher.com)
  • Kaitaia - the most northern major town in New Zealand
  • Waitangi - birthplace of New Zealand
  • Kerikeri - producers of art and fruit
  • Paihia - gateway to the Bay of Islands
  • Whangarei - New Zealand's northernmost city
  • Dargaville - heart of the Kauri Coast
  • Bay of Islands - tourism hub including Kerikeri, Paihia, Waitangi and Russell

Useful Northland Links

To help plan your Northland holiday choose from the main categories below:

Northland Region Information

Northland Tourism Operators

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Featured
 
New Zealand Coach Tours

New Zealand Coach Tours

The largest range of escorted & small group tours

New Zealand road trips - Let's go on an adventure

New Zealand Road Trips

Let's go on an adventure

New Zealand self-drive tours

NZ Self-Drive Tours

Explore NZ on a custom self-drive package holiday

Bluebridge Ferry

Bluebridge Cook Strait ferries

Cross Cook Strait and enjoy Kiwi hospitality.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for independent travellers.