North Island Holidays

North Island, New Zealand

beautiful north island holidays in new zealand

The North Island of New Zealand is an idyllic place for a holiday, with stunning coastlines, dramatic mountain ranges, fertile river valleys and a unique Maori heritage to explore. The north island has the countries two main cities, Auckland and Wellington. North of Auckland you'll find the Bay of Islands, a breathtaking seaside holiday spot which also features important Maori heritage at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. In the south are the holiday hot-spots of the Coromadel, known for its beaches and the volcanic region of Taupo and Rotorua.

North Island

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North Island Holidays Planner

Auckland in the north of the island is the largest city in New Zealand and is the main point of entry for tourists arriving in the country. By contrast, Wellington at the very southern tip of the island, is the lesser known capital. Both are known for their gourmet restaurants and cafés, which make the most of the island's abundant fresh produce and premium wines. Both cities are set in picturesque harbours and have many water-based activities including sailing, scenic cruises, kayaking and diving tours.

Adventure tours available include white-water rafting, volcanic mountain climbing, diving and bungy jumping. Try your hand at trout fishing on magnificent Lake Taupo, or discover the bubbling mud pools and soaring geysers of the country's main thermal springs area, Rotorua. The mountainous regions of the Tongariro National Park in the hinterland are accessible all year round, with breathtaking walking trails and wild-flowers to enjoy in spring and summer, and great skiing in winter. Closer to Wellington in the south of the island you will find some of New Zealand's best wine regions including Hawke's Bay, Eastland and Wairarapa. While many of the North Island's majestic Kauri forests were cut down in the 19th and 20th centuries, there are remnant pockets of these awe-inspiring trees to visit.

North Island Accommodation Search

Accommodation in the North Island is plentiful, and whether you are looking for 5 star luxury or something more affordable, you'll be sure to find a range of options in delightful locations. The climate of the North Island varies from subtropical in the north to temperate in the south. Please search for our favourite accommodations in the North Island to find current availability and get the best room rates from over 100 booking sources:

North Island Travel Info
The North Island of New Zealand is 3.5 hours flight from the east coast of Australia or 12.5 hours from Los Angeles. Both Wellington and Auckland have domestic and international airports, with connections to all the regional areas of New Zealand. Hotel transfers, car and camper-van hire are available. Spring, Summer & Autumn (September – May) are the best times to visit, unless you are chasing the alpine ski slopes, in which case winter (June - August) is the time to come.