Northland journeys
Getting somewhere using muscle power rather than motor power somehow makes the journey more meaningful. In Northland, you can explore in ways that feel as natural and powerful as the landscapes.
On the trail of ancient kauri trees
Between Maungaturoto and Omapere are kauri forests that are quietly waiting to meet you. You can start at the Matakohe Kauri Museum, for some background to Northland's kauri heritage, then hike to the summit of Tokatoka, a volcanic peak that overlooks a huge area of regenerating kauri forest.
Next stop could be Trounson Kauri Park, where the special highlight is a guided night walk to hear (and maybe even see) New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi.
Finally, venture into the Waipoua Forest - the greatest kauri forest of them all. Tāne Mahuta, the God of the Forest, and Te Matua Ngahere, the Father of the Forest, both live here. Spending time with trees that are up to 2,000 years old is awe-inspiring.
Exploring a bay full of islands
As you'd expect, the Bay of Islands is absolutely full of islands. Many of them are brilliantly explorable, by boat, kayak and on foot.
On beautiful Urupukapuka Island you can follow hiking trails to pa sites and areas that were once settled by Māori communities. This island also has wetlands and tracts of native forest. Motorua Island is another island that's excellent for walking; it has a trail right around its perimeter and you can join the track from any of the main beaches. Getting to these islands is easy with local water taxi services.
In the town of Paihia there are several kayak operators who can rent you a craft and point you in the right direction for an amazing water-based adventure. If you'd prefer the safety and social fun that comes with a group experience, a sea kayak tour is the way to go. From day trips to 10-day expeditions, there's a tour that will definitely float your boat.
Twin Coast Cycle Trail - Pou Herenga Tai
One of New Zealand's 22 Great Rides, the Twin Coast Cycle Trail is a bike-lover's dream come true. Linking the west and east coasts of Northland, it travels between Opua and Horeke in four stages. All up, you're looking at 87 kilometres of tranquil Northland scenery spread over two to four days, or you can choose any of the stages for a one-day adventure.
You'll be Instagramming native forests, suspension bridges, waterfalls, streams, estuaries, farm animals, harbours, boardwalks and tunnels. There are bike hire operators at both ends of the trail.
Full Circle Coastal Walkway
A down-to-earth way to explore the mainland adjacent to the Bay of Islands is the hike known as the Full Circle Coastal Walkway. It travels from Paihia to Opua, links to Okiato by ferry, continues to the historic township of Russell, then connects back to Paihia with another ferry ride.
The total trip is 14 kilometres, which suggests you'll need a reasonable level of fitness (and plenty of water!), or you can just do part of the walk. Every step is worth the effort; you'll see beaches and native forests, boardwalks through mangrove wetlands, historic places, vineyards and oyster farms.
Te Paki Coastal Track
Right at the top of Northland is a 48 kilometre walking journey that starts at Spirits Bay and ends at the monstrous dunes of Te Paki. On the way you'll see Cape Reinga, the most northern point of New Zealand; historic Māori pā (fort) sites; remote, untouched bays and coves; and the silver-gold sands of Ninety Mile Beach. Once you get to Te Paki, dune surfing beckons - rent a sand board and fly down the giant sand hills at lightning speed.
Mount Manaia Walkway
Amazing Mount Manaia guards the entrance to Whangārei Harbour. It's an ancient volcanic formation that's important to local Māori. There's a legend about how the five rock columns at the summit of the mountain are people who were turned to stone by the God of Thunder.
The walk to the summit of Mount Manaia is challenging, but you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Taurikura Bay, Hen and Chickens Islands, Bream Head and the harbour entrance.
Cape Brett Track
Cape Brett marks the southern end of the Bay of Islands and its iconic lighthouse has been guiding sailors since 1910. It's a ruggedly beautiful peninsula that can only be explored on foot, following the Cape Brett Track. It takes a day to walk the track in one direction. An inspired way to organise the logistics of this track is to catch a water taxi to the tip of the peninsula, then walk inland to Rāwhiti.