The 10 things to see on New Zealand's North Island
Published on 17 déc. 2024
Located on the other side of the world, more than 19,000 kilometers from France, New Zealand is an ancestral land full of surprises. Composed of two distinct islands, it offers travelers a multitude of places, each more astonishing than the last. With breathtaking landscapes and a very strong Maori culture, discover this incredible island where nature holds a very important place. So important that in 2017, Parliament granted legal personality to the Whanganui River, which flows for 290 kilometers on the North Island. To make sure you don't miss anything during your trip to New Zealand, here are the 10 things to see on New Zealand's North Island.
Auckland, the capital of New Zealand's North Island
If you arrive via Auckland airport, don't skip this city which has many surprises in store. Amidst the buildings, marking the urban heart of the city, you can't miss the Sky Tower, this 327-meter-high tower overlooking Auckland with an incredible view of the harbor. You can visit it and go up thanks to its elevator and glass floor. You can eat or have a drink there, and for the more daring, it is even possible to bungee jump from the outdoor platform (Skyjump) or walk around it (Skywalk), attached by a harness, of course!
Auckland is also a group of islands like Waiheke Island, known for its various vineyards and tastings of New Zealand wines, or the uninhabited volcanic island of Rangitoto, a true sanctuary for species of flowers and birds.
Cape Reinga
Located at the tip of New Zealand's North Island, Cape Reinga is definitely the lighthouse at the end of the world. On the way to the Cape, you can discover Ninety Mile Beach, a beach that actually stretches for 90 kilometers (or 56 miles) where driving is allowed! So don't be surprised to see tire tracks on the sand and above all, don't miss this unusual route to reach the end of the world.
Coromandel
On the Coromandel Peninsula, you can discover the famous Cathedral Cove beach with its rocky arch. If you like picturesque places, head to Hot Water Beach: equipped with your shovel, you just have to dig in the sand at certain specific times to take a hot, even very hot, bath!
Tauranga and Mount Maunganui
The city of Tauranga and its port are a breath of fresh air where marine activities attract both adults and children. Sea trips for fishing or dolphin watching, or simple walks by the sea, Tauranga is a real break during a road trip on the North Island. A few kilometers away, don't miss Mount Maunganui, an ideal spot for surfers and a must-do climb to admire the incredible view of the peninsula.
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✔️ Hike up Mt Maunganui ?: @amberaulelei
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Rotorua
A must-see stop during your trip to New Zealand's North Island, Rotorua is known for its rich Maori culture and strong geothermal activity. Don't miss visiting a Maori village and let yourself be tempted by their traditional cuisine where dishes are cooked in the Maori hangi, an oven dug directly into the ground. Explore the Wai-O-Tapu National Park where the different chemical components escaping from the ground will offer you an incredible palette of colors. However, beware of the smell of rotten eggs that can be felt throughout the region, due to sulfur!
Taupo and its lake
Taupo is home to the largest lake in New Zealand. This region is synonymous with adventure and all kinds of activities such as paddleboarding, canoeing, rafting or jet boating at the foot of the Huka Falls for water sports enthusiasts, or for the more daring, bungee jumping or skydiving just above the lake.
Tongariro National Park
Whether you're a hiking enthusiast or not, Tongariro National Park is a must-see during your stay in New Zealand. Offering breathtaking landscapes, the park is made up of three still active volcanoes. Skiing in winter and hiking in summer, this idyllic setting will appeal to both adventurers and the more leisurely among us! It is in this park that part of the famous "Lord of the Rings" was filmed. You will recognize the film's stunning landscapes.
Hawke’s Bay
Hawke’s Bay is characterized as the most productive wine region in New Zealand. Thanks to its warm and dry climate, many vineyards will welcome you to taste their different wines. It is also the Art Deco center of the country, due to an earthquake that destroyed most of the bay. The reconstruction of the towns in the 1930s therefore left a particular architecture, as in the city of Napier which organizes an Art Deco festival every year where cars and costumes from the era are out! You will also enjoy the wide open spaces and hikes to Cape Kidnappers or Te Mata Peak.
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Taranaki
Mount Taranaki is part of Egmont National Park. You can go around it (and admire it!) with different possible hikes in the park or simply climb it. On the way, stop in the city of New Plymouth where you can enjoy Pukekura Park with its lake and botanical gardens as well as its small free zoo. Don't hesitate to do the Coastal Walkway on foot or by bike to cover these 13 kilometers along the sea.
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Wellington
It is obviously impossible to miss the capital of New Zealand: Wellington, especially if you take the ferry there to go to the South Island or if you return there. Between sea and mountains, this city offers many activities, both cultural, such as the magnificent Te Papa Museum or its famous funicular, the Cable Car, and for nature lovers, such as the various hikes to discover the city's waterfront or Zealandia, a natural area that preserves New Zealand's flora and fauna.
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