Top 10 things to do in winter in Taitokerau Northland

Are you looking for winter activities in Taitokerau Northland? Here's a few ideas to get you started.

1. Take to the skies!

Winter brings clear air and crisp skies, which make the views from a scenic heli flight, parasail, or parachute rival to none!

2. Warm the body and soul at Ngawha Springs.

Geothermal, mineral rich waters bubble up from the earth in the heart of the mid-north, into 16 different pools or varying temperatures and healing properties.

3. Plunge into another world!

Along with clear skies, winter brings clarity to the ocean especially at the Poor Knights Islands. Divers and snorkellers can discover the migratory and resident populations of marine wildlife that thrive here under the safety of the marine reserve.

4. Soak up the views while you soak in an outdoor bath.

Outdoor baths make appearances at a range of properties here in Taitokerau Northland, from the twin baths overlooking the ocean at Donkey Bay Inn in Russell, to the tub under the canopy of Totara trees at Highfield Forest Retreat. Also check out Wild Forest Estate, the Magic Cottages at Takou River and Matapōuri Glamping.

5. Get the warm blood pumping.

Tackle one of the stunning day hikes around the region. From Kaiaraara Rock (the Duke’s Nose) in the Far North, Mt Manaia in Whangārei, or Maungaraho Rock in the Kaipara, there are plenty of steep but delightful hikes that will raise your temp and reward you with epic views!

6. Taste the summer harvests.

With such a warm climate, Taitokerau Northland produces a range of fantastic wines from varietals you might not have even heard of! Evoke those summer feels with a wine tasting at wineries like Marsden Estate, Karikari Estate, or Paroa Bay Winery.

7. Keep warm by the fire.

Many of the luxury lodges, glamping, and boutique accommodation around Taitokerau Northland have fireplaces or firepits, perfect for keeping warm in the evenings. Check out the indoor and outdoor fireplaces at First Light Villa - Eagles Nest, the mini log-burner at Riverside Escapes or the firepit at Russell-Orongo Bay Holiday Park.

8. Escape the winter weather at some of the indoor attractions in Taitokerau Northland.

The Kauri Museum at Matakohe is the largest undercover attraction in Taitokerau Northland, Kiwi North has an indoor nocturnal kiwi house where you can watch kiwi going about their night during our day, and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds has two museums as well as the cultural performances inside Te Whare Runanga where you can stay dry and warm.

9. Warm up from the inside with comfort food!

Check out the Paua Pies in the Far North, go for fried bread and mussel chowder from Traditional Kiwi Kai in Whangārei, or tuck into a hot Thai curry at Greens Thai Cuisine in Paihia.

10. Hit the (cycle) trails!

Taitokerau Northland is Aotearoa New Zealand’s only true subtropical region, and it barely registers a frost on the ground most years. Winter is the perfect time to tackle Taitokerau Northland’s Great Ride, the Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast cycle trail or get the blood pumping at the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park. Both are easy enough for amateur riders to enjoy, especially on an e-bike!