Nortland Nature

Rugged coastlines, vast protected areas, ancient kauri forests, cute kiwi birds... if you're a nature addict, Northland is the place for your next fix.

For outdoorsy travellers, trust us, it doesn't get much better than Northland. This beautiful region of New Zealand's North Island features some of the country's most incredible things to do in nature. If you're wondering how to see its natural splendour at its best, the options are endless.

Whether crashing waves, serene sandy beaches, rainforest-filled valleys or dramatic mountains do it for you, Northland is delighted to oblige. And that's before you even get to the range of furry, feathered and scaled inhabitants of this subtropical area. It's an animal party here, and you're the guest of honour.

But we know that when you're trip planning for a place like this it can be next to impossible to know where to go first. Basically, it's all knock-your-socks-off brilliant. So to make building an itinerary that bit easier, here are some of our favourite outdoor activities and natural attractions in Northland.

Forests

  • The kauri forests of Northland bear great spiritual significance in Māori culture, but they're also seriously awe-inspiring to look at, with huge trees that have stood for more than two thousand years.
  • Waipoua Forest, on the west coast, is a must-do. It's home to massive Tane Mahuta, the country's biggest kauri tree and the 'Lord of the Forest'. You will feel humbled...and that's okay.
  • Towards the east coast, Puketi Forest and A H Reed Memorial Kauri Park should be on your list.

Coastline

  • Northland has it great, with amazingly varied beaches. Wild, crashing waves and raw beauty to the west; pretty, swimmer-friendly sands to the east.
  • On the west coast, Ninety Mile Beach is going to be your new best friend. Massive sand dunes and dramatic surf await.
  • On the east coast, the tropical Bay of Islands is known as a patch of paradise. That's because it is.

Animals

  • Everyone loves a dolphin, and Northland 's waters are full of them. The Bay of Islands is one great choice for a dolphin-spotting cruise.
  • You can't leave New Zealand without hanging with some kiwis. The birds, of course! Get up-close and personal with these flightless cuties at Kiwi North.
  • Diving and snorkelling in Northland are the best. The marine life in the Poor Knights Islands, close to Tutukaka is, arguably, the best of the best.

Created in partnership with Northland RDO