• New Zealand Guide

  • Introduction to New Zealand
  • When to go
  • Things not to miss
  • Getting around
  • Public holidays
  • Entry requirements
  • Money

• Explore New Zealand

  • Auckland
  • Around Auckland
  • Northland
  • Western North Island
  • Central North Island
  • The Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and the East Cape
  • Poverty Bay, Hawke's Bay and the Wairarapa
  • Wellington
  • Marlborough, Nelson and Kaikoura
  • Christchurch and south to Otago
  • The Central South Island
  • Dunedin to Stewart Island
  • The West Coast
  • Central Otago
  • Fiordland

• Cities

  • Auckland
    
  • Christchurch
    
  • Dunedin
    
  • Nelson
    
  • New Plymouth
    
  • Wellington
    

New Zealand Guide

Northland

• Eating
• Accommodation

Thrusting 350km from Auckland into the subtropical north, Northland separates the Pacific Ocean from the Tasman Sea. The two oceans crash together off Cape Reinga, New Zealand's most northerly road-accessible point. Kiwis often describe this staunchly Maori province as the "Winterless North", a phrase that rightly evokes the palms and citrus trees, warm aquamarine waters and beaches of white silica and golden sand that make the upper reaches of the region such a magnet.

Scenically, Northland splits down the middle. The east coast is a labyrinth of coves hidden between plunging headlands. Beaches tend to be calm and safe, with the force of occasional Pacific storms broken by clusters of protective barrier islands. There could hardly be a greater contrast than the long, virtually straight, western coastline pounded by powerful Tasman breakers and broken only by occasional harbours. Tidal rips and holes make swimming dangerous, and there are no lifeguard patrols. Some beaches are even designated as roads but are full of hazards for the unwary – and rental cars aren't insured for beach driving. Exploration of the undulating interior involves long forays down twisting side roads.