The North Island doesn't get the same postcards as the South, and that's a shame. North Island New Zealand tours cover geothermal landscapes that look genuinely alien, some of the best Māori cultural experiences in the country, a hobbit village in a working farm valley, and a capital city with better coffee than it has any right to. The scenery is greener and softer than the South. The vibe is warmer. Give it the time it deserves.
Start in Auckland, New Zealand's biggest city, with the Waitemata Harbour on one side and the Tasman Sea on the other. Head south through the Waikato to Hobbiton and Rotorua. Continue through Waitomo and Taupo before finishing in Wellington, the nation's compact and very likeable capital.
What's on the North Island
Rotorua is the geothermal capital of New Zealand. Bubbling mud pools, geysers shooting 30 metres into the air, hot springs you can actually sit in, and Māori cultural experiences that are the real thing rather than a tourist version of it. Yes it smells like sulphur. Yes it's completely worth it.
Waitomo Caves are underground and extraordinary. Glowworm caves accessible by boat cruise, black water rafting through underground rivers, and abseiling into cave systems for the properly adventurous. Hard to describe, easy to remember.
Taupo sits on the shore of a lake larger than Singapore, with the Tongariro Alpine Crossing departing nearby. One of the best day hikes in the world. Skydiving here with the volcanic plateau spread out below you is also a very solid life choice.
Hobbiton in Matamata is the Shire from Lord of the Rings, intact, on a working sheep farm, and genuinely impressive even if you haven't seen the films (the rolling green hills alone are worth it).
How to travel the North Island
A hop-on hop-off bus pass is the most flexible way to move between destinations at your own pace. Or hand the logistics over entirely with one of our North Island guided tours, which cover all the highlights with sorted accommodation and expert guides.
The North Island connects to the South Island by ferry from Wellington to Picton, one of the more scenic crossings you'll do. Browse the full New Zealand tours range or talk to our team to build your itinerary. Check New Zealand deals for anything running right now.
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