Stretching 350km north from Auckland, Northland is New Zealand’s only sub-tropical region and with its above average sunshine record and glorious beaches, it is popular with locals as well as visitors. Winters are mild and citrus fruits and even bananas grow among its gentle hills and valleys.
To the east the renowned Bay of Islands is a must for anyone visiting Northland. The aptly named ‘Bay of Islands’ is a great place to combine adventure and relaxation. Offering some of the most scenic coastal scenery in New Zealand, 150 islands are nestled within the picturesque bay, providing the setting for activities including sailing, big game fishing and swimming with wild dolphins.
I understand that one size doesn’t fit all, and that’s why you have the freedom to design your experience, your way.
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Highlights
Waitangi National Reserve
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most historically significant areas, most notably for the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 between the Maori chiefs and the British. The Treaty House at Waitangi acts as a museum and visitor centre recording these important events in New Zealand history. The reserve also houses the Whare Runanga, a Maori meeting house and the 100ft long war canoe or waka.
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Highlights
The Bay of Islands & Paihia
Gorgeous white sand beaches dissolve into a turquoise sea studded with many islands that can be readily explored on a scenic cruise or dolphin swimming experience. The small town of Paihia is a favourite place to stay. Close to Waitangi Reserve it is the base for excursions, including the popular Cape Brett ‘hole in the rock’ cruise.
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Highlights
Russell
The charming town of Russell is a short ferry ride from Paihia. It is smaller than its neighbour across the bay and as such more peaceful, with many historic buildings, good restaurants and interesting shops.
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Highlights
The West Coast
In contrast to the sheltered east coast, the windswept west coast is thrashed by the Tasman Sea. The oceans meet at New Zealand’s northernmost accessible point, Cape Reinga, a volcanic outcrop at the end of Ninety Mile Beach. Specially equipped coaches drive along this superb stretch of sand and surf, following the trail of the ‘spirits’. Legend has it that the departing spirits of the Maori head north along this route to leap off the headland into the sea.
Trip ideas
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Best Seller
New Zealand by Rail, Cruise and Coach
New Zealand Escorted RailExperience spectacular rail journeys and boat cruises on this escorted group tour.
From £5450 Excluding Flights
18 Nights
Jan-May & Sep-Dec
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Spectacular North and South
New Zealand Self DriveExplore New Zealand in depth on this well-paced self-drive allowing you to immerse yourself in the country's plentiful wonders.
From £4666
27 Nights
Year Round
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North Island Classic
New Zealand Self DriveThis two-week self-drive holiday takes in the highlights of the North Island.
From £1966 Excluding Flights
13 Nights
Year Round
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Whale and Dolphin Explorer
New Zealand Self DriveImmerse yourself in a wealth of wildlife and nature on this fantastic self drive.
From £3979 Excluding Flights
20 Nights
Year Round
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Essential New Zealand
New Zealand Self DriveThis 14-day itinerary is designed for the budget-conscious traveller wanting to experience the best of New Zealand at an affordable cost.
From £1858
13 Nights
Year Round
Trip experiences
Other New Zealand regions
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Auckland
The most cosmopolitan of New Zealand’s cities, one fifth of Auckland’s one million inhabitants are of Polynesian descent.
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Christchurch and Canterbury
From the lofty Southern Alps to the broad Canterbury Plains, the peaceful spa resort of Hanmer Springs to the bustle of the country’s most English of cities, Christchurch, this stunning region is one of contrast and diversity with experiences to match.
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Dunedin and Southland
With an abundance of natural wonders that includes some of the best wildlife viewing in the country, the South Island’s southern tip can also lay claim to the most interesting architecture in the elegant and stately city of Dunedin.
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Nelson and Marlborough
The gateway to South Island, this is a region of sunshine, wine, arts and crafts and stunning nature encompassing an area of superlative natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or just those wanting a relaxing escape, this is a region not to be missed.
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Pacific Coast
The Pacific coast region includes both the most travelled and least visited parts of New Zealand incorporating the Coromandel, the Bay of Plenty, Eastland and Hawke’s Bay.
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Rotorua and Central Plateau
In the geographic heart of New Zealand’s North Island, the immensely varied landscapes of this acclaimed region take in fertile farmlands, snow-capped volcanoes, steaming geothermal fields and crystal-clear trout-filled lakes.
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Southern Lakes
This picturesque southern corner of New Zealand has achieved almost legendary status for its superb scenery and range of adrenaline-charged activities, including skiing.
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Wellington and Wairarapa
Wellington is New Zealand’s vibrant capital city and is renowned for its arts and culture, proximity to nature and varied culinary experiences, perfectly complemented by the world class wines of the Wairarapa vineyards.
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West Coast
The West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is wild and rugged, yet immensely beautiful and a popular location for visitors.
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Western North Island
Taranaki is the North Island’s 'nose', a peninsula that juts out into the wild Tasman Sea. From its broad, flat plain, used mostly for dairy farming, the majestic volcanic cone of Mt. Taranaki rises to over 2500m.
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