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Things to do in North Island

The North Island has an amazing climate and terrain that attracts people from all over the world. Many amazing attractions on offer are just waiting to be explored. The North Island showcases spectacular snorkelling and diving, unforgettable bush walks and hikes, exquisite views to experience while skydiving, on a cruise or scenic flight, and so mu... Show More

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Top Attractions

Flight from Napier to Gisborne
Muriwai Surf School - Surf Lesson

Muriwai Surf School - Surf Lesson

A kiwi family owned and operated business that has been teaching people to surf for over 20 years!

Waiheke Buzz Scenic

Waiheke Buzz Scenic

Waiheke Island from a birds eye

Wellington: Original LOTR Half-Day Experience with Weta

Wellington: Original LOTR Half-Day Exp...

Tour famous sights from The Lord of the Rings movies

Sea Cave Adventures Whitianga

Sea Cave Adventures Whitianga

Visit the world famous Cathedral Cove + Te Whanganui O Hei Marine Reserve!

Sustainable sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings.

Sustainable sailing to the Maori Rock Carving...

Unique and authentic eco sailing experience

Auckland Premium Golf Private Experience

Auckland Premium Golf Private Experience

Play a premium 18-hole round at one of Auckland's leading golf courses

Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

Scenic cruise out to Motukōkako, the Hole in the Rock

Auckland Scenic Harbour Sunset Cruise
Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour

Waimangu Valley Walk & Steaming Cliffs Ka...

Spectacular geothermal wonders

Spaceship Escape Room Adventure

Spaceship Escape Room Adventure

Gorgeously themed, jammed with tactile and electronic, high-tech puzzles.

Avocado Adventure Tour

Avocado Adventure Tour

Guided tour of a working avocado orchard by the grower

Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, Hundertwasser Centre, Opua Forest Walk
Glow Worm Cave Tour
Auckland Māori Culture Experience

Auckland Māori Culture Experience

Discover Auckland's iconic landmarks on a comprehensive city sightseeing tour

Rafting New Zealand Grade 3
Waiheke Island Double Headland Coastal Walk

Waiheke Island Double Headland Coastal Walk

Walk the twin headlands of Matiatia and Church Bay on Waiheke Island

Flight from Hamilton to Whangarei
Tandem Skydive over Lake Taupo - 16,500ft

Tandem Skydive over Lake Taupo - 16,500ft

Experience Taupo's highest skydive at a whopping 16,500ft!

Mad Hatter's Hat Escape Room

Mad Hatter's Hat Escape Room

Fantasy based with lots of puzzles

Wellington Commentated Harbour Tour

Wellington Commentated Harbour Tour

Take in stunning scenery while learning about Wellingtons natural and maritime history

Sheep & Beef Working Farm Private Tour (Operating 1 st Oct till 30th April)

Sheep & Beef Working Farm Private Tour (Opera...

Enjoy an exclusive private tour of a working New Zealand sheep and beef farm

Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Day Trip

Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Explorer Day Trip

eBike through Summit Tunnel - 584 metres long

Daytime Canyon Kayak Tour

Daytime Canyon Kayak Tour

Native Flora and Faune surrounding you as you float through a prehistoric like canyon

Canoe Hire & Jet Boat Tours Whanganui River

Canoe Hire & Jet Boat Tours Whanganui Riv...

Experience 1 day canoe hire with jet boat return

Tongariro Alpine Crossing Transport Ketetahi Shuttle
Rotorua Geothermal Private Experience

Rotorua Geothermal Private Experience

Enjoy a guided tour through the spectacular Geothermal Valley Te Puia and bubbling mud pools

Sundowner Evening Sailing Cruise

Sundowner Evening Sailing Cruise

Enjoy a relaxed sail aboard a smooth sailing catamaran in a peaceful setting

Scenic Lake Rotoiti Kayak Tour - Rotorua
Auckland Scenic Wine and Cheese Cruise

Auckland Scenic Wine and Cheese Cruise

Complimentary Drink and Charcuterie Box

Bluefin Tuna Fishing

Bluefin Tuna Fishing

Extreme Fishing in the Bay of Islands

America's Cup Sailing Experience

America's Cup Sailing Experience

Opportunity to participate in sailing the vessel as part of our crew

Flight from Whakatane to Gisborne
Vigilant Yacht Charters - Day Sailing Bay of Islands
Snorkeling Trip

Snorkeling Trip

Snorkeling the Bay of Islands

Mount Tarawera/Waimangu Thermal Valley – ‘Eruption Trail Tour’

Mount Tarawera/Waimangu Thermal Valley – �...

Thrilling take off and landing on Lake Rotorua

Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village - Guided Tour

Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village - Guided T...

New Zealand’s iconic living Maori village

Bay of Islands Wine Tour

Bay of Islands Wine Tour

Visit three of the best outlets in the Bay of Islands.

Eco Sailing Adventure ex Waiheke

Eco Sailing Adventure ex Waiheke

Explore the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park aboard our 41-foot catamaran Pacific Star

Island Hopper Sailing Cruise

Island Hopper Sailing Cruise

Sailing on a comfortable cruising catamaran

Tongariro Alpine Crossing return shuttle from Taupo
Lunchtime Nature Cruise

Lunchtime Nature Cruise

90 min Lunchtime Nature Cruise

4WD Bush Safari Experience - Self Drive

4WD Bush Safari Experience - Self Drive

Unforgettable self-drive 4WD adventure

Flight from Tauranga to Gisborne
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Includes 48-hour international visitor entry fee

Waiheke Island Wine & Art Tour

Waiheke Island Wine & Art Tour

Create your own handcrafted jewellery in a hands-on workshop

Mount Tarawera Volcanic Adventure

Mount Tarawera Volcanic Adventure

Aerial highlights include: Crater Lakes and Tarawera Falls,

Escape Adventure

Escape Adventure

See the beautiful Takapuna scenery

Waiheke Island Cultural Experience

Waiheke Island Cultural Experience

Visit the local Marae to learn about its importance to the community and Marae protocol

Ancient Temple Escape Room Adventure

Ancient Temple Escape Room Adventure

Designed for smaller teams, gorgeously themed, jammed with tactile and electronic puzzles.

Private Luxury Auckland - Rotorua Geothermal Wonderlands Tour
Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach

Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach

Enjoy the magical views from the Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Waikato River EBike tour

Waikato River EBike tour

Ride beside the mighty Waikato River for between 25 - 60km

Scenic Rafting

Scenic Rafting

Fun, family friendly river experience

Raceline Karting

Raceline Karting

Test your skills - Reach speeds up to 100 km/h.

Bethells Boogie

Bethells Boogie

Explore impressive 30-meter-high sea caves and rock chasms along the rugged west coast.

Glimpse Winery Tour Experience at Soljans Winery

Glimpse Winery Tour Experience at Soljans Win...

Quick Behind-the-Scenes Look – Step into the winery and see where the magic happens.

Rainbow Warrior and Reef Dive

Rainbow Warrior and Reef Dive

Diving The Rainbow Warrior Wreck

Full Day Sailing Charter with Island Stop and Lunch
Scenic Riverhead Tavern Cruise

Scenic Riverhead Tavern Cruise

Cruise to New Zealand’s oldest riverside tavern

Martinborough Wine Tour

Martinborough Wine Tour

Lunch and wine tastings at Poppies Martinborough Winery with a platter of local delicacies

Scenic Cruise to the famous Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings

Scenic Cruise to the famous Ngātoroirangi M�...

Scenic Cruise to the famous Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings.

Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves - One Way Tour
Matakana Village Wine & Art Private Tour

Matakana Village Wine & Art Private Tour

Discover the charming Matakana Village and its scenic surroundings

Flight from Great Barrier Island to Whangarei
Sunrise Tour - Te Urunga-Tu

Sunrise Tour - Te Urunga-Tu

Dawn in the Land of the First Light

White Island/ Mount Tarawera 'Volcanic Extremes' Helicopter

White Island/ Mount Tarawera 'Volcanic Extrem...

Aerial highlights include: Northern Crater Lakes, Bay of Plenty

Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Zealong Tea & Kiwi Bird House Private Tour

Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Zealong Tea & Kiwi Bi...

Visit the award-winning Zealong Tea Estate for an elegant High Tea lunch

Orakei Korako

Orakei Korako

Double the Adventure: Two Stunning Water Landings Await!

Martinborough Half Day Winery Tour from Wellington

Martinborough Half Day Winery Tour from Welli...

Sample amazing locally made wines from one of the best pinot noir producing regions of the world

Hobbiton Movie Set & Te Puia (Rotorua) Private Tour

Hobbiton Movie Set & Te Puia (Rotorua) Privat...

Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour through the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set

VR Escape

VR Escape

Solve a murder, fix a spaceship before it explodes or escape from a fantastical world

Rotorua Geothermal Valley

Rotorua Geothermal Valley

Enjoy a guided tour through the spectacular Geothermal Valley Te Puia

Kiwi Wilderness Experience

Kiwi Wilderness Experience

Round-trip transportation from most Auckland CBD hotels

Karangahake Gorge Ebike Tour

Karangahake Gorge Ebike Tour

Ride through the spectacular natural beauty of the Karangahake Gorge

Rotorua Ziplines: Zipline Over Waterfalls

Rotorua Ziplines: Zipline Over Waterfalls

The only Ziplining experience to fly over waterfalls in New Zealand

Cathedral Cove Classic Tour

Cathedral Cove Classic Tour

Landing daily at Cathedral Cove for refreshments on the beach

Waiheke Sea, Land & Sky
Full Day Scenic Rafting on the Rangitikei River, Family Friendly

Full Day Scenic Rafting on the Rangitikei Riv...

Beautiful scenery, only seen from the river, including plenty of waterfalls and native bush

Mercer Bay Hiking & Waterfalls Private Tour

Mercer Bay Hiking & Waterfalls Private Tour

Enjoy the expertise of an experienced hiking guide throughout your adventure

Wine and Wild Coast Tour

Wine and Wild Coast Tour

North Island's largest mainland NZ fur seal colony

Birdwatching, Hiking & Waterfalls Private Tour

Birdwatching, Hiking & Waterfalls Private Tou...

Explore Pūkorokoro Miranda Wildlife Reserve with a professional bird guide

Buried Village Experience
Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves
Carino wildlife cruises - Island & Wildlife day Cruise

Carino wildlife cruises - Island & Wildli...

Dolphin and wildlife watching from our maine mammal permitted yacht

Rotorua Escape
100% Pure NZ - Raft the Kaituna River - Grade 5

100% Pure NZ - Raft the Kaituna River - Grade...

Tackle the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, the 7m Tutea Falls

Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Glow Worm Caves Private Tour

Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Glow Worm Caves ...

Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour through the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set

Flow and glow

Flow and glow

Stunning sea views

Mokai Canyon - 3 day river rafting holiday, family friendly

Mokai Canyon - 3 day river rafting holiday, f...

3 days of guided rafting on a beautiful section of the Rangitikei river

Dolphin Eco Cruise

Dolphin Eco Cruise

4 hours scenic cruising

KWIZINE TOUR - TASTES OF THE BAY OF PLENTY
Freak Of Nature 4WD Combo Package

Freak Of Nature 4WD Combo Package

Unforgettable self-drive 4WD adventure

Flight from Napier to Hamilton
Heritage Auckland Walk

Heritage Auckland Walk

Discover Auckland's unique historical narrative

Whenuakura (Donut) Island Guided Experience
Surf n Yoga Camp
Canyoning - Piha Full Day

Canyoning - Piha Full Day

Learning to canyon with our friendly canyon guides

Waitomo Glow Worm Caves & Te Puia (Rotorua) Private Tour

Waitomo Glow Worm Caves & Te Puia (Rotorua) P...

Discover the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a 1-hour guided underground tour

R Tucker Thompson

R Tucker Thompson

A unique activity taking part sailing the heritage tall ship R.Tucker Thompson

Glow Worm Kayak Tour

Glow Worm Kayak Tour

Incredible Glow Worms

Flight from Napier to Whakatane
Group Surf Lesson

Group Surf Lesson

Have fun in the waves

Cycling Adventure - Easy Cheesy

Cycling Adventure - Easy Cheesy

Lunch at the award winning Matatoki Cheese Barn

Travel Guides

Frequently Asked Questions about North Island

What are the top fun activities in the North Island?

The North Island of New Zealand offers a wide range of fun and memorable activities for every type of traveller. Popular experiences include the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, where visitors can walk through the iconic Shire and learn behind-the-scenes stories from the films, and the Cathedral Cove Boat Tour, which showcases stunning sea caves, cliffs, and crystal-clear waters along the Coromandel coast. Adventure seekers can enjoy the Tandem Skydive over Lake Taupo for breathtaking aerial views, or take on white-water excitement with Kaituna River Rafting, famous for its thrilling waterfall drop. For nature and wildlife lovers, the Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise offers the chance to spot marine life in their natural environment, while the Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach Tour combines dramatic landscapes, cultural significance, and scenic coastal driving. Together, these activities highlight the North Island’s mix of adventure, nature, culture, and iconic attractions.

What are the top attractions in the North Island?

The North Island of New Zealand is home to many of the country’s top attractions, combining natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and unforgettable experiences. Some of the standout attractions and tour experiences include the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves & Te Puia Geothermal Valley Tour, where you can explore magical underground glow worm formations and the steaming geothermal landscapes of Rotorua’s cultural heartland; Hobbiton Movie Set Tours, which take you into the beloved Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film locations with charming Hobbit holes and scenic countryside; the Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach Tour to New Zealand’s northernmost point where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean and extensive sandy beaches stretch for miles; the Cathedral Cove Boat Tour, offering spectacular views of rugged sea caves, rock arches, and pristine coastal waters; and the Hells Gate Luxury Mud Spa in Rotorua for a unique geothermal wellness experience with mud baths and hot springs. You can also enjoy a day out fishing charter in the Bay of Islands. Together, these attractions showcase the North Island’s mix of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and fun activities that appeal to all kinds of travellers.

What are the best things to do in the North Island with kids?

The North Island of New Zealand has lots of great activities that are fun and suitable for kids of different ages, combining adventure, interactive experiences, and relaxation. Some kid‑friendly tours and experiences you’ll find include the 3D Trick Art Gallery, where children can explore interactive art illusions; the Odyssey Sensory Maze, a playful maze full of optical effects that keeps kids engaged; the Hobbiton Tour, which brings the magical movie set of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit to life and is especially fun for young fans; the Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise, offering families the chance to spot dolphins and other marine life together. Other fun options for families include the Cathedral Cove Boat Tour with stunning coastal views, and the Bay of Islands Fishing experience that older kids may enjoy. These varied activities make the North Island a wonderful place for families to explore together and create lasting memories.

What to do in the North Island on a rainy day?

On a rainy day in the North Island of New Zealand, there are plenty of indoor or weather‑friendly activities you can still enjoy that don’t rely on sunshine. Great options include VR Escape, where you can dive into high‑tech virtual reality gaming and challenges; Odyssey Sensory Maze, an indoor illusion maze that’s fun for kids and adults alike; Hologate or Omni VR, both offering immersive virtual reality experiences; Axe Throwing in Brewtown, a quirky indoor activity that’s social and entertaining; and Escape Adventure, an indoor escape‑room style challenge perfect for groups wanting a clever indoor adventure. These tours and experiences give you fun alternatives and memorable ways to spend a rainy day on the North Island without missing out on great things to do.

What are the best day trips from the North Island?

The North Island of New Zealand is a great base for a number of memorable day‑trip experiences that take you to iconic sights and exciting activities beyond the main cities. One standout option is the Hobbiton Express Tour, a full‑day journey from places like Auckland or Rotorua to the magical Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie set, where you can explore Hobbit holes, the Mill, and the Green Dragon Inn, a perfect way to enjoy New Zealand’s film heritage in a single day. Other excellent day trips include the Tandem Skydive over Lake Taupo for an unforgettable aerial adventure, the America’s Cup Sailing Experience in Auckland Harbour if you want to feel like part of a racing crew, and Half Day Rafting on the Rangitikei River for thrilling white‑water fun, all rewarding ways to see more of the North Island’s diverse scenery and activities without needing to stay overnight.

What are the best things to do near the North Island?

The North Island of New Zealand offers a wide range of exciting experiences and tours for all types of travellers. Popular options include the Glow Worm Kayak Tour, where you can paddle at dusk and see glowing wildlife; Waka Ama Adventure, a cultural water‑based journey; Martinborough Half Day Wine Tour, perfect for scenic vineyard exploration; Tauranga Scenic Harbour Cruise, showcasing stunning bay views; Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise, ideal for spotting marine life; Whanganui River Canoe Hire & Jet Boat, combining peaceful paddling with a thrilling ride; Hobbiton & Rotorua Day Tour, visiting the famous movie set and geothermal attractions; Escape Adventure, a fun indoor challenge; Family Fun Raft Trip for an active water experience; Mount Tarawera Helicopter Experience, offering aerial views of volcanic terrain; Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience, perfect for sightseeing from the water.

Tourist Information About North Island

The North Island has an amazing climate and terrain that attracts people from all over the world. Many amazing attractions on offer are just waiting to be explored. The North Island showcases spectacular snorkelling and diving, unforgettable bush walks and hikes, exquisite views to experience while skydiving, on a cruise or scenic flight, and so much more! The North Island also has a lot of history to explore, such as the oldest survivng stone building in New Zealand, the Stone Store.




Skydive over crystal clear blue waters.

Skydiving is one of the top things to do in the North Island for adrenaline seekers. Imagine the rush of wind as you freefall at exhilarating speeds before gliding peacefully under a parachute while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the region. Skydiving is a unique way to see the North Island from a whole new perspective, and it's an experience you'll never forget.

Luxury fishing charter in Northland.

Days Out fishing Charter: The Days Out Fishing Charter is a great way to explore the beautiful North Island coastline and islands in style. Charter a luxury boat and take in the sights and sounds of the region while enjoying fishing. This is a perfect way to spend a day with friends or family while enjoying the sun and sea.

 

Tour the Coromandel by boat.

Cathedral Cove Boat Tour: Cathedral Cove is a famous spot in the North Island, known for its natural beauty and crystal clear waters. Take a scenic boat tour to the cove and enjoy the stunning views of the white sandy beach, the towering cliffs, and the surrounding marine life. This is a perfect way to spend a day exploring the North Island's natural beauty.

Indulge in a luxury mud spa.

Hells Gate Luxury Mud Spa: Hells Gate is a geothermal area in Rotorua known for its natural hot pools and mud pools. The luxury mud spa is a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate in the middle of this geothermal wonderland. Indulge in a mud bath, a steam bath, and a massage while taking in the natural beauty of the area.

 

Epic Tandem Kayak Tours down the Kaituna River in Rotorua

Tandem kayaking is a niche activity compared to traditional rafting trips in the area. There is nowhere else in the world that you can tandem kayak a river like this! The ‘Epic Tandem Kayak Tour’ is the most hands-on, head-first approach to conquering the mighty Kaituna River!



Top fun activities in the North Island


The North Island has so many activities on offer. Here is a list of the most fun activities and things to do in the North Island for all ages, price ranges, and durations.
 

 

Fishing in the Bay of Islands for all experience levels.

Days Out Fishing Charters Bay of Islands: The Bay of Islands is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and a Days Out Fishing Charter is the perfect way to enjoy it. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Days Out team will take you on a fishing adventure you'll never forget.

 

Hole in the Rock Helicopter Ride and Landing.

Take a helicopter tour to the famous Hole in the Rock in the Bay of Islands and enjoy the breathtaking views of the region. The tour includes a landing on the rock, which is a unique and exciting experience.

 

Thrilling VR experience. 

If you're looking for something a little more high-tech, check out the best VR Escape experience. This is a virtual reality gaming place where you can experience a wide range of virtual reality games and simulations.

 

Tandem Skydive over Lake Taupo.

Lake Taupo is one of the most beautiful spots in the North Island, and a tandem skydive over the lake is a perfect way to enjoy the views. Experience the rush of freefall and the peaceful glide under a parachute while taking in the stunning scenery of the region.



Fun things to do with kids and children's activities in the North Island

Many activities in the North Island are kid-friendly, yet memorable for everyone. Check out the list below for some ideas of activities to do with kids and with the whole family.

 

3D Trick Art Gallery with puzzles and illusions.

The 3D Trick Art Gallery is a fun and interactive way for kids to experience art. With a variety of puzzles and illusions, the 3D Trick Art Gallery will keep kids engaged and entertained for hours.

 

Odyssey Sensory Maze for all ages.

The Odyssey Sensory Maze is another fun and interactive activity for kids. It is filled with illusions and interactive exhibits, providing hours of entertainment for kids and people of all ages. This is a cheap and memorable activity with the option to purchase illusion glasses.

 

Stargazing Tours

Explore southern night sky treasures; Milky Way, Moon and planets from our pristine dark sky site using research grade telescope in rotating dome. Handle meteorites older than Earth, sit inside giant sundial, take a journey through our scale model solar system. Unique family activity. Free self-contained campervan parking overnight. Bookings essential. Boutique B&B onsite.

 

Kiwi North: Whangarei Museum, Kiwi House & Heritage Park

You will find Northland's only Kiwi House at Kiwi North. This Whangarei attraction is set on 25 hectares of rolling farmland, forest & bush, with views that overlook the city and the Whangarei Heads the site features a museum, a nocturnal kiwi house and gift store, and unique Victorian heritage buildings. 

Alpaca Feeding Farm.

Alpaca feeding trail is a unique experience for kids and adults alike; it allows you to feed and interact with these friendly animals while learning about their behaviour and habits. Many farms offer a guided tour and a chance to take a photo with the Alpaca, making it a fantastic family-friendly activity.



Things to do in the North Island when it’s raining.

The weather in the North Island is not always perfect, so having a few rainy-day activities up your sleeve is a good idea. Below is a list of rainy-day activities and fun things to do in the North Island when its raining.


VR Escape

This is a virtual reality gaming venue where you can experience a variety of immersive games and simulations. You'll have the opportunity to explore virtual worlds, solve puzzles, and engage in thrilling adventures.

Weta Workshop Unleashed 

This tour will take you behind the scenes of Weta Workshop, the special effects studio behind the Lord of the Rings and other films. You'll get to see how the movie magic is made and learn about the creative process behind the movies.

Odyssey Sensory Maze

This is an interactive maze with illusions where you can explore a variety of different environments and test your senses. The maze is designed to challenge your perception and test your ability to navigate confusing spaces.

Wellington's Cocktail Tour 

This tour will take you to some of the city's best bars and cocktail lounges. You'll get to sample delicious cocktails and learn about the history and culture of Wellington's drinking scene.

 

Race car simulator.

This experience will allow you to experience the thrill of racing without leaving the comfort of indoors. You'll get to drive a virtual race car on a variety of tracks, and the simulator will give you a realistic sense of the speed and excitement of racing.

Escape rooms in Auckland.

This escape room in Auckland offers many different fun themes and time ranges. This activity can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes! This is a great and cheap way to fill in a rainy day in Auckland.




Best day trips in the North Island


The North Island has a spectacular coastline and terrain that allow for many day-long excursions that are cheap and memorable. Check out the list below to find the most amazing all-day activities.


Tandem Skydive over Lake Taupo

This is a once in a lifetime experience where you can jump out of a plane and freefall at 200km/hr before your parachute opens and you float down to the stunning Lake Taupo. The views of the lake and surrounding areas are breathtaking and make for an unforgettable experience.

 

America's Cup Sailing Experience in Auckland harbour.

Get a taste of what it's like to sail a high-performance racing yacht on the Waitematā Harbour, Auckland. The America's Cup Sailing Experience allows you to take the helm, grind or trim the sails, and work as part of a team to sail the yacht to its maximum potential.

 

Hobbiton Express Tour of the hobbit movie set


Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set, the location of the Shire from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. Take a guided tour of the set, see the hobbit holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, and enjoy a drink at the end of the tour.

 

Half Day Natural Horsemanship & Ride

Learn about horse behavior and communication as you work with a horse on the ground, learning how to safely and effectively handle, lead, and groom them. Once you have formed a bond, you will then have the opportunity to take a horse out for a ride.

 

Half Day Rafting on the Rangitikei River

Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the Rangitikei River. With rapids ranging from grade 2 to grade 4, this is a great way to test your limits and get your adrenaline pumping. The scenery along the river is also beautiful, with lush native bush and wildlife.




Great Experiences in the North Island

There is a range of great activities in the North Island, here is a list of all the top-rated activities that everyone will enjoy.



Skydiving in the North Island.

Skydiving is one of the top things to do in the North Island for adrenaline seekers. Imagine the rush of wind as you freefall at exhilarating speeds before gliding peacefully under a parachute while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the region. Skydiving is a unique way to see the North Island from a whole new perspective, and it's an experience you'll never forget.

 

Prvate Fishing Charter for all skill levels. 

The Days Out Fishing Charter is a great way to explore the beautiful North Island coastline and islands in style. Charter a luxury boat and take in the sights and sounds of the region while enjoying fishing. This is a perfect way to spend a day with friends or family while enjoying the sun and sea.

 

Cathedral Cove Boat Tour.

Cathedral Cove is a famous spot in the North Island, known for its natural beauty and crystal clear waters. Take a scenic boat tour to the cove and enjoy the stunning views of the white sandy beach, the towering cliffs, and the surrounding marine life. This is a perfect way to spend a day exploring the North Island's natural beauty.

 

Hells Gate Luxury Mud Spa in Rotorua.

Hells Gate is a geothermal area in Rotorua known for its natural hot pools and mud pools. The luxury mud spa is a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate in the middle of this geothermal wonderland. Indulge in a mud bath, a steam bath, and a massage while taking in the natural beauty of the area.

 

Scenic Cruise in Lake Rotorua.

Take a leisurely cruise on the picturesque Lake Rotorua and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding geothermal area. This is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon while taking in the natural beauty of the region. The boat tour you can enjoy the sights and sounds of native birds like the Tui, Kōkako, and the Kererū.

 




Best hikes and walking tracks in the North Island

The North Island is made up of spectacular coastline and beautiful rolling hills that make for the most amazing walks. There are a variety of walking tracks on offer, from coastline tracks and bush walks to mountain ranges for serious hikers. The tracks can range from one hour to complete to several days. Hikes are one of the best ways to explore the stunning and vast North Island.



Bay of Islands Coastal Walkway

This track is an advanced walking track that is great for exploring the Bay of Islands as it is a full-circle track around the bay that takes 8 hours to complete. This hike is very versatile with many different options for where in the loop to start and end.


Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway

This track is great for all skill levels as it covers beaches, cliff tops, native forests and farmlands with a gentle track. The Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway hike takes 2-3 hours to complete and is a total of 5km long. This makes the track a great option for a morning or evening excursion.

 

Rangitoto Summit Track

While Auckland may seem like a crowded city, it has spectacular secluded beaches all around it that offer amazing hikes. Rangitoto Island is just off the coast of Auckland and is a great place to visit for a day trip. The spectacular 2 hour easy hike on the Island has views of Auckland city, stunning beaches and native bush.

 

Coast to Coast Walk

This walk, located in Auckland, takes you across the width of the country in 4 to 5 hours! The highlights of this walk include heritage sights, volcanoes and a beautiful urban landscape. This walk starts at the Auckland ferry terminal, so a great way to start the walk would be after a day excursion outside Auckland!  


The Cathedral Cove Walk

The Coromandel, known for its stunning world-renowned coastline, is the perfect place for walking and hiking in New Zealand. The Cathedral Cove Walk is an easy track that showcases everything to love about the Coromandel. This walking track takes 1.5 hours to complete and features the well-known gemstone and stingray bays, and stunning natural rock formations and caves.


Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing track is one of the most popular tracks in New Zealand for a good reason. This track showcases an active crater, lava tracks, huge geothermal steam vents, stunning emerald lakes high in the mountains, and breathtaking views. This hike takes 8 hours to complete, it is an advanced track but the views the entire way make it a good investment.

 

Taupō Lakeside Walks

Lake Taupō is a stunning large lake in the middle of the North Island. Around the outside of the lake is an easy-going, peaceful walking track. This track crosses paths with sandy beaches, picnic spots and stunning cliffs.





Best beaches in North Island to visit


The North Island of New Zealand harbours some of the most amazing, world-renowned beaches. Beaches in the North Island are all worth visiting as each one is unique and beautiful. From surf beaches, black sand beaches and rocky beaches to geothermal beaches, the North Island has something for everyone.




Piha Beach

Famous for its black sand and powerful surf, Piha Beach is a popular destination on Auckland's west coast. It's surrounded by rugged cliffs and iconic rock formations like Lion Rock, making it a must-visit for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts.

Hot Water Beach

Located on the Coromandel Peninsula, Hot Water Beach is known for its geothermally heated water that bubbles up through the sand. Visitors can dig their own hot pools during low tide, creating a unique and relaxing beach experience.


Cathedral Cove

Accessible by a picturesque walking track, Cathedral Cove in the Coromandel is famous for its stunning natural archway and crystal-clear waters. The beach is surrounded by white cliffs, creating a breathtaking setting.


Ninety Mile Beach

Stretching along the west coast of the Aupouri Peninsula, Ninety Mile Beach is a vast and seemingly endless expanse of golden sand. It's known for its beauty and provides a unique driving experience for those looking to explore its length.



Mount Maunganui Main Beach

Nestled at the base of Mount Maunganui, this beach is renowned for its golden sands and excellent surf conditions. The iconic Mount Maunganui summit offers panoramic views of the beach and the Bay of Plenty.


Raglan Beach

A laid-back surf town on the west coast, Raglan is known for its long left-hand surf breaks and black sand beaches. Ngarunui Beach is particularly popular for both surfers and those seeking a relaxed coastal atmosphere.


Tawharanui Beach

Located within Tawharanui Regional Park, this beach offers pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. It's an excellent spot for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying the coastal beauty of the Hauraki Gulf.


Orewa Beach

Just north of Auckland, Orewa Beach is a family-friendly destination with a long stretch of golden sand. The beach is ideal for swimming, picnics, and enjoying the relaxed seaside atmosphere.

 

Waihi Beach

Situated in the Bay of Plenty, Waihi Beach is known for its long, flat stretch of white sand and great surf conditions. It's a popular destination for water activities, beach walks, and enjoying the coastal scenery.


Whangamata Beach

A favourite holiday spot on the Coromandel Peninsula, Whangamata Beach is renowned for its excellent surf conditions and vibrant summer atmosphere. The beach town offers a range of water activities and a relaxed coastal vibe.


Castlepoint Beach

Located on the Wairarapa coast, Castlepoint Beach is known for its unique lighthouse on Castle Rock. The beach offers a mix of sandy shores and rocky outcrops, providing a scenic and peaceful coastal retreat.


Oakura Beach

Tucked away in Taranaki, Oakura Beach is a local gem with black sand, good surf, and a laid-back atmosphere. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, it's an ideal spot for both relaxation and water sports.

 


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