North land
written by Lisa Cunningham / photography by Northland Inc
Northland offers beauty and history THE SUBTROPICAL CLIMATE IS CALLING
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orthland is a region filled with diverse experiences perfect for every kind of traveller in every season, thanks to its mild climate and range of activities. Step back in time and explore the Kauri Coast and Hokianga, an area that stretches from the Brynderwyns in the south to the Hokianga Harbour in the north. Visit million-year-old fresh-water dune lakes with crystal clear water or endless stretches of wind-swept sand. Discover some of the largest and oldest Kauri trees in the world, like Tāne Mahuta and Te Matua Ngahere, and learn about the kauri timber milling and gum trade of the 1800s. Explore the Hokianga Harbour, hear the stories of Kupe, the great Polynesian explorer, and visit the small historic settlements of Rāwene and Kohukohu, where you can find great coffee and fantastic art. The Top of the North is a must-do, not only for the iconic Cape Reinga lighthouse and the colliding oceans, but for the gigantic dunes, pure white sand beaches and slower pace of life. Discover picture-perfect beaches along the Karikari Peninsula, and stopover in the small towns of Doubtless Bay, if not for the night, then at least for the fish and chips.
You are never far from the water in Northland and the city of Whangārei is no exception. Nicknamed “The City of 100 Beaches” even the city centre is on the water, with the Hātea River running through the Town Basin into the Whangārei Harbour. The Town Basin is an excellent spot to grab a bite to eat and the city centre is home to Street Prints Manaia, a trail of 15 large-scale murals.
The Tutukaka Coast is well-known in the area, especially for its proximity to the world-famous dive sites at the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, but the Ōakura and Whananaki coasts further north should not be missed either. Whangārei Heads is home to rocky giants like Mount Manaia, with impressive views over the harbour, as well as superb surf beaches and sheltered family-friendly bays. Further south of the harbour is Bream Bay, with 22 kilometres of sandy beaches perfect for walking, surfing, surfcasting and even horse riding.
Cape Reinga, Aupouri Peninsula
TOP FIVE TO-DOS 1. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN CULTURE AND HISTORY Not only is Northland home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, there are also nine Tohu Whenua sites around the region and numerous historical buildings and sites – all full of stories. 2. GET OUT ON (OR UNDER) THE WATER You can take a boat tour, sail a yacht, paddle a kayak, float on a paddleboard, ride a wave, drop a line, dive, swim, snorkel – the options are endless!
3. TASTE THE LOCAL PRODUCE Northland’s subtropical climate produces a huge range of delights for your taste buds: from oysters to olives, macadamia nuts to manuka honey and avocados to oranges – not to mention the local wines, beers and spirits. 4. INDULGE IN A LITTLE LUXURY With luxury and boutique lodges right through to private glamping tents and cabins, you will discover outdoor baths, private beaches, secluded rivers and spectacular views to indulge your senses.
5. TRAVEL LIKE A LOCAL Discovering Northland is all about getting off the beaten track. Check-out Northland Journeys for six road trips that cover all the local favourites, scenic viewpoints, hidden gems and must-dos along the way. Visit www.northlandjourneys.co.nz
A little further south you will find the Whangaroa Harbour with towering volcanic outcrops looking out over deep-sea fishing spots and flanked on both coasts with stunning beaches like Taupo Bay and Matauri Bay. The Bay of Islands is named for its 144 islands, but it offers so much more. Home to the Kororipo Heritage Park, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the first capital of New Zealand at Kororāreka Russell, the history of this area is almost unmatchable. Paihia and Russell gaze at each other from across the bay and both are jumping off points for exploring this aquatic playground, either on or under the water, including the famous Hole in the Rock at Motu Kōkako Piercy Island. Waterfalls and scenic viewpoints are countless in the Bay of Islands and the wineries are unmissable too. The biggest mistake you can make here is not spending long enough.
Paddleboarders and canoeist, Poor Knights | credit: David Kirkland
Tāne Mahuta, Waipoua Forest
Motuarohia Island / Roberton Island, Bay of Islands
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