Here are the Must See Things to Do in North Island of New Zealand

When you envision the North Island of New Zealand, you probably think of these stereotypes: lush green landscapes dotted with sheep, picturesque rolling hills, and, perhaps, a Hobbit or two. While these notions capture elements of the island, there is more to it than what meets the eye. The North Island isn’t just a postcard-perfect destination, it’s also filled with natural wonders, cultural richness, and adventure waiting to be explored.

After a month long trip through the North Island, I delve into the must-see attractions, exciting activities, and unique experiences that make the North Island a destination beyond imagination. You’ll come back from your trip reminiscing constantly, and having the itch to go back. So, buckle up for a journey that goes beyond sheep, hobbits, and bungee jumping. Let’s take a trip through the North Island!

How to Best See the North Island

To truly soak in the magic of the North Island, your best bet is to hit the road with your own set of wheels. Renting a car gives you the freedom to chase those spontaneous moments and take detours to find hidden gems. However, renting a car might dent the budget a bit. But it’s the best method if your travel style and budget desires freedom to stop wherever your heart desires. Wind through scenic routes, pause at charming towns, and park up at viewpoints without worrying about schedules. Most people like to start from Auckland and drive down to Wellington or vice versa, stopping at places in between.

However, if you don’t want to worry about driving, hopping on a guided tour is your next best bet. Let someone else handle the driving while you kick back, enjoy the scenery, and soak in the local tales. It’s like having your own personal navigator without the stress of reading maps or arguing over directions. I personally took the Coast and Culture guided tour with Haka Tours for a one week in the North Island. It was an amazing tour and I really loved the cultural aspect of it. We got to support a Maori cultural experience that supports Maori kids in their community. That is a once-in-a-lifetime experience I will never forget.

Must-See Attractions

Now that you’ve got your travel mode sorted, let’s dive into the North Island’s showstoppers that demand a spot on your itinerary.

Hobbiton: A Journey into Middle-earth

If you’ve ever dreamt of stepping into the enchanting world of Hobbits, Matamata’s Hobbiton is your golden ticket. Nestled in the rolling hills, this iconic film set brings J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth to life. Wander through the whimsical Hobbit holes, relive cinematic moments, and raise a pint at the Green Dragon Inn. You’ll even get to go in a hobbit hole yourself!

The most popular experience here is the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, which costs $120 NZD per adult. Each ticket comes with a 2.5 hour guided walking tour and a free drink at the Green Dragon Inn. The tours are very well planned out, and they even have umbrellas ready for visitors in the (often) chance that it rains. Even as a casual LOTR fan, it was a great experience. There are also breakfast and banquet tours on top of the movie set tour you can book as well.

There are several ways you can get to Hobbiton, but the most convenient option is to book a Hobbiton shuttle, which transports visitors to and from Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton. You can book a transfer here. You can get there on your own by driving as well and there is a parking lot. It’s not ideal to take an uber or taxi, as it will be very expensive and inconvenient.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves: A Magical Underground Natural Wonder

Witness a celestial display of thousands of glowworms in Waitomo. You glide through dark caves by boat as the creatures illuminate the cavern, creating a breathtaking subterranean galaxy. In 1887, local Maori Chief Tane Tinorau explored these glowworm caves accompanied by an English surveyor. Then in 1889 Tane Tinorau opened the cave to tourists, and led tours along with his wife, Huti. Today, many staff employed at the caves are direct descendants of the chief and his wife.

The glowworm (Arachnocampa Luminosa) is unique to New Zealand. And contrary to its name, the glowworm isn’t a worm at all. Rather, it is the larvae of a mosquito-like fly found in shady, moist areas. The “glow worm” hangs a sticky silk-like thread near its body and emits a bioluminescent light to attract and catch its prey. Pretty gnarly stuff if you ask me! Besides its biological function, the glow worm sighting is a must-do in New Zealand. You won’t find it anywhere else on the planet.

To see the glow worms, it costs $75 NZD for a boat ride through the Waitomo cave. To be honest, it’s a very short ride and no pictures are allowed. I preferred my kayak trip in Rotorua to see glowworms much more. But if you have limited time, this tour is a good option. However, if you have another, intimate opportunity to see them, I would skip this one.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing: See Mount Doom IRL

For the outdoor enthusiasts, Tongariro National Park is a haven of natural wonders. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, often hailed as one of the world’s best day hikes, treats you to awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and the iconic Mount Ngauruhoe, aka Mount Doom for the “Lord of the Rings” fans. I almost didn’t go on this hike, and I am so, so glad I did. I think the best hike I’ve done in my life. You can read my experience here.

The Alpine Crossing is an intense, 7 hour hike that takes you through three active volcanoes. The ascent is no joke, you basically go straight up for a good portion of the hike. It’s so infamous that the staircase that starts the climb is called the “Devil’s Staircase”. And it’s so difficult that there are multiple sign posts along the route that tells you to turn around if you are extremely tired. Once you go past the midpoint, you cannot turn around. Multiple people have to get airlifted out every year!

But if you are physically able, definitely do this hike. It’s breathtaking and is a great physical challenge. To get to the start of the hike, you have to book a shuttle. You can drive, but you’ll need someone to drive your car to the end of the route or have someone pick you up. Since the route is one-way, you start and end in different points.

Things to Do for Nature Lovers

Nature lovers, rejoice! The North Island is a playground of untamed beauty and ecological marvels.

Te Urewera: Untouched Wilderness and Lake Waikaremoana

Te Urewera was a national park (still) famous for its rugged, remote, and lush forests and lakes. In 2014, a joint settlement with the Ngai Tuhoe and the Crown disestablished it as a national park and established as its own legal body. Interestingly enough, the park is now recognized in New Zealand law as a living person with the Tuhoe people for its legal guardians.

One of the most popular attractions here is Lake Waikaremoana, framed by lush forests and rolling hills. Here you can find Lake Waikaremoana Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. It’s a multi-day walk that offers breathtaking views of the North Island landscape: ferns, forest, and blue, blue lake.

Coromandel Peninsula: Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove

The Coromandel Peninsula boasts spectacular nature. It’s a strip of rugged terrain that protects the Bay of Plenty from the Pacific Ocean. The center of the peninsula hosts a forest while beaches line its perimeter. Dig your own hot pool at Hot Water Beach, where thermal waters bubble up through the sand. Then, explore the ethereal Cathedral Cove, a pristine beach framed by natural rock arches—a true paradise for beachcombers and photographers alike. You can only get there by boat or foot! Sadly, my trip to Coromandel wasn’t possible due to the New Zealand storms that ripped apart much of the Auckland area. I would love to return and visit beautiful Coromandel.

Geothermal Wonders: Huka Falls, Rotorua Te Puia, and Kerosene Creek in Waiotapu

One thing I wasn’t aware of is the amazing geothermal activity in the North Island, specifically in and around Rotorua. Rotorua’s intense geothermal activity can be attributed to its location on the Taupo Volcanic Zone, a region with high tectonic activity. Beneath the Earth’s surface, the Pacific Plate subducts beneath the Australian Plate, creating a hotspot for volcanic and geothermal features.

The result is a landscape rich in bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and erupting geysers. In Rotorua, the earth pulses with geothermal energy, creating an otherworldly landscape. Te Puia invites you to witness bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and the iconic Pohutu Geyser, the largest and most active geyser in the southern hemisphere. It erupts hourly and up to 100 feet (30 m)! Rotorua is a must for nature lovers—it ended up being one of my favorite stops on my tour.

Additionally geothermally, Huka Falls, is an incredibly fast waterfall with a flow rate that could fill an Olympic sized pool in 11 seconds. The Waikato River narrows and unleashes a powerful torrent of blue-green water. Imagine water from a fire hose being pushed through a small nozzle. It’s crazy fast and also incredibly blue from all the air being incorporated into the water. There’s a reason why it’s called Huka, after the Maori word for ‘foam’. Nearby, in Waiotapu, find Kerosene Creek, a natural hot spring nestled in the forest. Soak in the warm waters powered by nature!

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

If you didn’t know, bungee jumping originated in New Zealand! The country does not fall short of adrenaline-pumping experiences, so this is for the adrenaline-junkies out there looking for their next ride.

Bungy Jump or Skydive in Taupo

No better place to go than Taupo for an exhilarating jump. It’s popular for bungy jump and skydive thanks to Lake Taupo and the Waikato River. If you’re going to jump from freakishly high heights, you might as well make them gorgeous from above. AJ Taupō Bungy and Swing is the first and only cliff top bungy jump in New Zealand. You dive head (or feet, or arm, or cartwheel) first into the stunning Waikato River, surrounded by cliff and lush trees. It is $235 NZD per person, which is a pretty-penny, but if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s the best place to go. Bungy jump did originate in Queenstown, though, so if you find yourself on the South Island, do it there!

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can opt for a skydive! It’s about double the price of a bungy jump, but you’re jumping from way higher.

White-Water Rafting in Rotorua: Conquer the Kaituna River

Embark on a white-water rafting expedition down the Kaituna River, starting from the base of the stunning Okere Falls. The river flows through a picturesque gorge surrounded by native forests, providing a breathtaking scenery on your raft down. The Kaituna River descent is renowned for its intense rapids and the grand finale—a heart-stopping seven-meter drop down the Tutea Falls—the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere. Brace yourself! Altogether, this is an ideal destination for white-water rafting enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure in a visually stunning setting.

Cultural Experiences

No trip to New Zealand is complete without learning about the Maori and their connections to this land. Maori culture and heritages are intertwined with Aotearoa, Land of the Long White Cloud.

Maori Arts and Crafts Institute

The Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, located in Rotorua, New Zealand, is a cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Maori arts, crafts, and traditions. Established in the early 1920s, the institute serves as a guardian of Maori heritage, playing a crucial role in passing down traditional knowledge, skills, and cultural practices from one generation to the next.

What makes the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute special is its commitment to maintaining Maori art forms. Skilled artisans within the institute meticulously practice and teach various traditional crafts, including wood carving and weaving. All artisans at the institute are Maori.

The school offers a guided tour, where you’ll also get to tour the famous geothermal geysers at Te Puia. Visitors have the unique opportunity to see artisans craft firsthand and also speak with them about their experience. I love that there is an institution dedicated to Maori traditional crafts. The pou whenua are a must see—you can’t miss it! They’re huge.

Wellington: Te Papa Tongarewa

Te Papa Tongarewa, aka Te Papa, is New Zealand’s national museum and it is the best place to learn about history, art, and Maori heritage. The name “Te Papa Tongarewa” translates to “container of treasures” in Maori, reflecting its role as a repository for the nation’s cultural, historical, and natural treasures. The museum aims to showcase and celebrate New Zealand’s diverse heritage, including Maori and Pacific Island cultures, as well as its natural environment.

Some of their popular exhibits include the Colossal Squid and Gallipolli, both featuring larger than life creatures and sculptures that will leave your mouth open. It’s free entry to all and it is open 10 – 6 PM everyday except on Christmas. It’s one of the must see things to do in Wellington, and it’s location on the waterfront makes it easy to visit.

Kohutapu Lodge in Galatea: A Tranquil Cultural Retreat

Nestled in Galatea, Kohutapu Lodge provides a unique cultural retreat. Surrounded by native bush and Lake Aniwhenua, this lodge offers a tranquil setting to connect with Maori culture. This family-run cultural exchange experience is an amazing socially responsible lodge. They utilize tourism to provide positive change in their community and offer opportunities for local kids. With the money they earn, they donate school meals, sponsor kids abroad, donate money, and host fieldtrips across New Zealand.

I loved my stay at Kohutapu—you feel very connected to the community. You engage in traditional activities, like Maori storytelling through the Haka, and savor delicious kai (food) through a traditional hangi feast while appreciating the serenity of the lake. The family is apart of the Ngati Manawa Tribe, who are the first inhabitants of this area. It’s an amazing, amazing experience that I recommend to anyone going to the North Island. And Nadine, one of the co-facilitators of the lodge, is the sweetest!

Must-Do Experiences for Food and Wine Enthusiasts

Coming from California, I have access to some amazing food and wine (Napa Valley). But I will say that the food and wine I had in New Zealand are incredible quality and delicious. You have to try the milk—it’s so fresh!

Waiheke Island: Wine Lovers Retreat

Take a ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island, a prominent wine region due to its unique maritime climate and location. As a result, it creates the ideal temperate environment for grape growing and allows for a longer growing season than mainland Auckland. Additionally, the island’s diverse soil types, ranging from clay and limestone to volcanic soils, contribute to the complexity and distinctiveness of the wines produced.

The island is renowned for producing premium Bordeaux-style red blends, particularly those incorporating Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes. These red wines often showcase a rich and robust flavor profile, with notes of dark fruit, spices, and well-integrated tannins. Waiheke is also recognized for its elegant and expressive Chardonnays which have ripe fruit flavors, vibrant acidity, and subtle oak influence.

Take a wine-tasting tour on the island, where each sip is complemented by panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Kumeu (West Auckland) Wine Region: Auckland’s Wine-Making Neighbor

This burgeoning wine region boasts family-owned vineyards and boutique wineries, offering a delightful blend of varietals. Like Waiheke, this region also specializes in Chardonnays and red wine, including Cabernets and Merlots. Auckland is home to some of New Zealand’s oldest vineyards, starting in the early 1900s by Croatian immigrants.

Some of the top wineries here include family-run Suljans Winery, the picturesque Westbrook Winery, and the charming Hunting Lodge. I had the pleasure of visiting all of them on my wine tour with NZ Wine Pro and loved the Hunting Lodge the most for their AMAZING fresh homemade focaccia bread. This tour was really nice because it was basically private, the only other tour patron was another woman! We all got along swimmingly (in wine) and I got to meet a new friend. The best of all, this wine region is super close to Auckland, within a 30-35 minute drive away from the city center. You have award-winning wine basically right in your front yard.

Eatery Hubs in Auckland and Wellington

It’s no secret that Wellington is New Zealand’s foodie capital, with more restaurants per capita than New York City! Stroll along Cuba Street to peruse a variety of restaurants which will all meet expectations and bellies. One of my favorite spots in Wellington is 1915 Pastaria which whips up fresh pasta for a crazy affordable price during happy hour, as cheap as $10 NZD! You also won’t be pressed for amazing coffee either, with brunch cafes and coffee shops around every corner.

But don’t sleep on Auckland, either, with its array of delicious restaurants featuring international cuisines and more. Ponsonby is a hip inner-city neighborhood that boasts Korean, Thai, Italian, Mexican, and more cuisines on one street. My favorite restaurant here is Khu Khu Eatery—I think I went 4 times in 2 weeks! It’s an all vegan Thai place that tastes even better than regular Thai food. Their crispy sliced daikon appetizer is the best. I literally dream about it. And the hospitality and manager are all so sweet. And you can’t stop by Ponsonby without trying the famous Duck Island Gelato!

Have a Great Time on the North Island

I didn’t know what to expect my first time exploring around the North Island, but it exceeded all my expectations. It’s the perfect balance of nature, scenery, food and beverage, and city-life. From the magical glowworm caves to the breathtaking views of Tongariro, to the rustic wine-making regions and the cultural exchanges. The North Island of New Zealand has so much to offer, and even more to explore. There’s something for all types of travelers, and these are, in my opinion, the must see and things to do on your next trip to the North Island. Happy Travels! ☻