Spring shows up in Northland first. While the rest of the country is still waiting out the last of winter, kōwhai are already blooming, days are stretching longer, and the warmth is settling in weeks ahead of everywhere else. Locals are out enjoying the outdoors weeks before other parts of the country shake off winter. It's the first taste of sunshine, the first blossoms, the first reason to get outside again.
Northland doesn't wait for spring, it leads it.
STORIES START HERE
Northland is often called the birthplace of the nation; a region layered with centuries of history and culture.
It's home to some of the earliest sites of Māori settlement in Aotearoa, alongside iconic locations like Waitangi, where the founding document of New Zealand was signed. From ancient Māori pā sites and thriving iwi traditions to the stories of early European settlers, whalers, missionaries, and kauri gum diggers, Northland's past is woven into its landscapes, place names, and communities. Today, that rich heritage lives on through cultural experiences, museums, marae visits, and historic trails, offering visitors a chance to connect with the true origins of New Zealand.
Come walk in the footsteps of history. Discover Northland's stories for yourself.
ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Craving a rush? Northland is your playground. Whether it's water, air, or land, the region is packed with thrills to get your heart racing, soar above the Bay of Islands on a parasail, tear it up on a V8 trike, or tackle a slip-and-slide inflatable obstacle course. For something truly one-of-a-kind, ride Aotearoa New Zealand's only monster scooter park or carve your way down towering sand dunes on a sandboard. However you like your adrenaline, Northland delivers unforgettable memories at every turn.
Your adventure starts here; how far will you push it?
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Adventure & Adrenaline
There’s nothing quite like getting outside of your comfort zone to create unforgettable memories. Water, air, or land-based, there’s a huge range of thrilling activities in Taitokerau Northland, like… See more
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In, On and Around the Water
No visit to Taitokerau Northland is complete without spending time in, on, or around the water. Warm oceans, long summers, and an extensive coastline has created an aquatic playground like no other… See more
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Cycling & Mountain Biking
In Aotearoa New Zealand’s only subtropical region, outdoor activities are on the cards year-round. Choose to tackle the country’s northern-most and only coast to coast Great Ride, challenge yourself… See more
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Must Do Experiences
Taitokerau Northland is a large region with plenty to do, so don’t miss out on our must-do experiences. These are the places, activities and attractions that make our region truly unique. Spiritual… See more
FLAVOUR STARTS HERE
Northland's food and beverage scene is a true reflection of our environment and people; warm, inviting, vibrant and memorable. As spring breathes new life into the region, so too does it awaken our kai (food). Fast becoming known for its bold and unique flavours, no visit to Northland is complete without experiencing our kai and manaakitanga (hospitality). Gather and feast across the region, with an abundance of fresh seasonal produce, a thriving market scene, and plentiful passionate artisan producers. Wherever you go, you'll be spoiled for choice.
Flavour starts here. Gather, feast, repeat.
DISCOVERY STARTS HERE
Discover hidden treasures when you venture off the beaten track with Northland Journeys, a series of 50–150km routes crafted to lead you to hidden gems, local favourites, and the best things to see and do across Northland.
Your journey starts here. Where will it take you?
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All About Islands
Bay of Islands
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Ancient Kauri Trail
Maungaturoto – Dargaville - Ōmāpere
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Headlands and Hidden Harbours
Kerikeri – Doubtless Bay – Karikari
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Into the Wide Blue Yonder
Whangārei Falls – Tutukākā Coast – Hikurangi
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Secret Coast Route
Russell – Helena Bay
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Te Ara Coast to Coast
Hokianga – Kaikohe – Bay of Islands
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Te Hiku o te Ika-a-Māui
Ahiparapara – Kaitaia – Te Rerenga Wairua
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The Welcoming Coast
Kaiwaka – Mangawhai - Waipū - Ruakākā
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Wandering with Ancestors
Hokianga Harbour
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Where Giants Gather
Whangārei Town Basin - Whangārei Heads
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