Top 10 things to do in Northland

Create your perfect journey through the fascinating history and natural wonders of New Zealand's sub-tropical north.

Northland is full of hidden treasures just waiting to be explored. You can visit picturesque islands, discover ancient forests, relax on gorgeous beaches and ride cycle trails. You can also hike for days through breath-taking scenery or go boating on harbours and rivers. Wherever you go, there's an almost spiritual sense of history, for this is where the great Polynesian navigator Kupe first landed.

Air New Zealand flies non-stop from Auckland to Whangārei and Kerikeri, with connecting flights from main centres and regions throughout New Zealand.

1. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Walk in the footsteps of those who changed history and experience the excitement of authentic Maori cultural performances. This premier New Zealand attraction tells the story of two peoples coming together under one treaty, known as Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Grab a day pass to enjoy the contemporary museum, cultural performance, guided tour, spectacular grounds, art gallery, carving studio and more.

2. Be astounded by Tane Mahuta

Sacred to local tribes, this ancient kauri tree is known as the God or Lord of the Forest. According to Maori legend, Tane Mahuta pushed Ranginui 'Sky Father' up and away from Papatuanuku 'Earth Mother', to bathe the world in light. Tane Mahuta is located in the spectacular Waipoua Forest, the largest remaining kauri forest in New Zealand.

Couple at Te Tii Marae Waitangi Northland, New Zealand.

Te Tii Waitangi Marae and the enormous Tāne Mahuta kauri tree in Waipoua Forest

3. Watch two oceans collide

Looking out from the Cape Reinga lighthouse, at New Zealand's northern-most point, you can watch the tumultuous collision of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean. From here, the spirits of recently-deceased Maori return to the ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. Tours to Cape Reinga travel along the sand of 90 Mile Beach for some of the journey - it's quite a ride!

4. Go boating in the Bay of Islands

From Paihia or Russell you can catch a day trip on a yacht or motor launch to explore the islands. There's a cruise to suit everyone, from small group sail boats and a genuine tall ship, to modern ferries and a go-fast chase boat. With 140 islands, a rich history and plenty of marine life to enjoy, the Bay of Islands is a true boating paradise.

Friends eating fish and chips by the Stone Store Kerikeri, New Zealand.

Take a stroll around Kerikeri's historic Kororipo Heritage Park and stop at the Stone Store (pictured) and Kemp House

7. Take a big walk

Whether you want to walk for one day or several, there are some great hikes in Northland, like the Cape Brett Track and the climb up Mt Manaia near Whangārei Heads. Also check out the Te Paki Coastal Track, which combines trails from Sprits Bay to Cape Reinga and along 90 Mile Beach into an exceptional three to four day hike.

8. Slide down sand dunes

Dune surfing is huge fun! Local operators provide a sandboard and take you across the harbour from Opononi Wharf to the massive North Head sand dunes. You can also join a bus tour from Paihia in the Bay of Islands or Kaitaia in the north to surf the legendary Te Paki sand dunes.

Sandboarding down the sand dunes at Te Paki in Northland, New Zealand.

Couple taking selfie during lunch at Paihia waterfront, Northland, New Zealand.

Sandboarding down the immense sand dunes at Te Paki; relaxing on the picturesque Paihia waterfront

9. Ride a trail from coast to coast

Pou Herenga Tai, the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, travels between the Bay of Islands and the Hokianga Harbour. It's an 87km two-day ride that takes you on a fascinating journey through spectacular scenery and some of New Zealand's earliest Maori and European settlements. Mostly off-road and with only gentle climbs, it's perfect for most riders.

10. Shop at a weekend market

Helped by Northland's subtropical climate, the weekend produce and craft markets are brimming over with great buys and creativity. Whangārei hosts one of New Zealand's first and largest growers market every Saturday morning on Water St. In the Bay of Islands, head to the Old Packhouse market in Kerikeri, which is on every Saturday and Sunday. Another popular local shopping event is the Mangawhai Tavern Market on Saturday morning.

Keep exploring Northland

Cape Reinga image courtesy of David Kirkland; Te Tii Marae image courtesy of David Kirkland; Image of Waipoua Forest courtesy of James Heremaia; Stone Store image courtesy of Northland Inc; Sandboarding image courtesy of David Kirkland; Paihia waterfront image courtesy of David Kirkland; Maitai Bay image courtesy of David Kirkland; Poor Knights Islands image courtesy of David Kirkland; Flax weaving image courtesy of Northland Inc