The Magic of Northland
- Last Updated: 5 Nov 2026
- Publish Date:
- Bonita
- North Island Tours, Northland
Northland has always been a favourite holiday destination for Kiwis, and it’s not hard to see why. With its beautiful beaches, sheltered bays, ancient forests and fascinating history, there’s plenty to discover in this northern corner of New Zealand.
But on our small group tours, we find time after time that it’s the people who make Northland so memorable – relaxed, down-to-earth and proud of the place they call home. From the stories shared by local Maori hosts to the friendly atmosphere of its seaside towns, Northland has a character all of its own.
Here are a few of our favourite things about this beautiful part of New Zealand.
Giant kauri forests
Step into Northland’s ancient kauri forests and you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering trees, lush native plants and the sounds of birdsong. Some of these magnificent kauri have been growing for well over a thousand years.
The most famous is Tane Mahuta, the ‘Lord of the Forest’, in Waipoua Forest. Standing over 51 metres tall and estimated to be around 1,500 years old, it’s New Zealand’s largest known living kauri tree. It’s quite something to stand beneath a tree that has been growing for so many centuries.
For local Maori, these forests hold deep cultural significance. Visiting Tane Mahuta with a local guide brings another dimension to the experience, as you learn about the stories and traditions connected to this remarkable forest.
A look up into Tane Mahuta’s towering canopy, where much of this ancient kauri’s enormous size is hidden.
The stories of Hokianga Harbour
On Northland’s west coast, Hokianga Harbour is a place of sweeping sand dunes, peaceful settlements and a history stretching back to the earliest Polynesian voyagers.
According to Maori tradition, the great navigator Kupe arrived in this part of New Zealand after his voyage across the Pacific Ocean. His story, and the connection local people have with the harbour, are shared at Manea – Footprints of Kupe in Opononi.
Here, descendants of Kupe bring these stories to life through guided storytelling, cultural performance and an immersive multimedia experience. It’s a fascinating way to learn about the history of Aotearoa New Zealand from the people whose ancestors first made this place their home.
And the harbour itself is well worth admiring, with its enormous golden sand dunes rising above the water.
Fascinating early history
Northland is often called the ‘Birthplace of the Nation’, and nowhere is that history more significant than at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands.
It was here, on 6 February 1840, that the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed by Maori chiefs and representatives of the British Crown. Today, visitors to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds can learn about the events surrounding the Treaty, its importance to New Zealand and the continuing relationship between Maori and the Crown.
Across the bay, Russell is another lovely place to explore. Once known as Kororareka, it was a busy port frequented by whalers and traders during the 1800s. The country’s first capital was established nearby at Okiato, originally named Russell, before that name was later transferred to Kororareka.
These days, Russell is a relaxed waterfront town with historic buildings, cafes and lovely views across the bay. Take a stroll past Christ Church, where musket-ball marks from the 1845 fighting can still be seen, or find a spot overlooking the water and enjoy the atmosphere.
Exploring the beautiful Bay of Islands
With its sheltered waterways, green islands and secluded beaches, the Bay of Islands is one of Northland’s best-loved holiday spots.
One of the best ways to appreciate the area is to get out on the water. Cruising between the islands gives you a different perspective on the coastline, with quiet bays, rocky headlands and sandy beaches appearing around each corner.
On our private Bay of Islands cruise, there’s time to stop at a sheltered beach, enjoy a swim or try paddleboarding and snorkelling if you fancy it. Or you can relax, enjoy the surroundings and take in the views.
The Bay of Islands is also home to dolphins and other marine life, although sightings are never guaranteed. The area is a protected marine mammal sanctuary, with rules in place to help safeguard its resident wildlife.
For more ideas about this beautiful part of Northland, have a look at our Paihia Beaches and Bay of Islands guide.
A glimpse of dolphins in the Bay of Islands, filmed while out on the water.
Northland’s natural wonders
It’s not just above ground that Northland has some wonderful natural attractions.
Near the Bay of Islands, the Kawiti Glowworm Caves are an impressive network of limestone passages, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the darkness. The caves have been cared for by the Kawiti family for generations, and a guided visit offers an opportunity to learn about both their natural features and family history.
Back outside, Northland’s forests are home to native birds including tui, kereru and the North Island brown kiwi. You might hear the distinctive calls of native birds while exploring the forest, even if you don’t always spot them among the trees.
Quaint seaside towns and friendly locals
One of the things we love most about Northland is its relaxed pace of life. Small settlements dot the coastline, with local cafes, galleries, historic buildings and waterfront spots where you can happily spend an afternoon.
There’s nothing quite like stopping for an ice cream or a meal of fish and chips by the water, watching the boats come and go, and having a chat with the locals.
It’s this combination of beautiful surroundings, rich history and welcoming people that keeps Kiwis returning to Northland year after year.
If you’d like to experience Northland as part of a longer New Zealand holiday, our Kakapo 21 Day Tour includes three nights in the Bay of Islands, with time to explore Waitangi, Russell, Hokianga Harbour and Waipoua Forest alongside your Kiwi Guide.
As a family-owned New Zealand tour company since 1971, we love sharing our favourite places with travellers from around the world. If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, get in touch with our friendly team. We’d love to help you plan your visit.
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- Bonita
- North Island Tours, Northland
