Step off the plane in New Zealand and you’ll feel it immediately: the crisp air, wide-open skies, and the promise of adventure everywhere. Most first-time visitors rush to the South Island, and it’s easy to see why, with its dramatic peaks and glaciers. But for those of us lucky enough to explore the North Island NZ Attractions, there’s just as much magic waiting with wild beaches, ancient forests, sacred sites, and small towns full of charm. Based in Auckland, we took time to discover places both near and far, and here are our favorite spots.
This isn’t a “squeeze-everything-into-seven-days” type of itinerary (though I know some people try!). Instead, think of it as a collection of iconic sights, hidden gems, and memorable experiences to pick and choose from. That way, you can craft a trip that fits your style and schedule.
Ready? Let’s dive into the magic of North Island NZ Attractions.
Table of Contents
The order of the list is completely random. It doesn’t mean the first one is my top recommendation. Please click on any destination name to jump directly to that section in this article.
- Cape Reinga – Where Two Oceans Meet
- Matakana Village Farmers’ Market – A Foodie’s Weekend Escape
- Wenderholm Regional Park – Coastal Beauty and Tranquility Near Auckland
- North Shore Beaches – Auckland’s Local Summer Paradise
- Warkworth – Kauri Forests, Riverside Walks, and Historic Ruins
- Aratiatia Rapids & Dam – Taupō’s Most Thrilling Natural Show
- Huka Falls Walkway – From Spa Thermal Park to Huka Falls
- Blue Spring Putaruru and Te Waihou Walkway
- Waimangu Volcanic Valley – The World’s Youngest Geothermal Wonderland
- Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave – A Hidden Geothermal Gem
- Long Bay Beach – Cliffs, Rock Formations, and Coastal Bliss
- Muriwai Beach – Black Sands, Sea Caves, and Gannets
- Piha Beach – Lion Rock, The Gap & Kitekite Falls
- Devonport – A Charming Seaside Escape Just Minutes from Auckland
- More Places to Explore on New Zealand’s North Island
1. Cape Reinga – Where Two Oceans Meet
At the very top of New Zealand’s North Island lies Cape Reinga. Standing here, you can actually see the Tasman Sea colliding with the Pacific Ocean, their swirling currents dancing dramatically in the distance.
The short walk from the car park leads us past the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, which has stood since 1941, guiding ships along this wild stretch of coast. But what makes this spot truly special is its Māori significance. According to oral tradition, spirits of the departed leap from the ancient 800-year-old pohutukawa tree at the tip of the cape, beginning their journey back to their ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. It’s humbling to stand in such a sacred place, where myth and landscape intertwine.
On my visit, it was windy and a bit chaotic with kids running around, but as I focused on the waves and seagulls, a sense of calm set in.
2. Matakana Village Farmers’ Market – A Foodie’s Weekend Escape
If you’re in Auckland on a Saturday and fancy a little adventure, make the one-hour drive north to Matakana Village Farmers’ Market. This charming market feels like it has a touch of Europe, with cobbled vibes, artisan stalls, and the smell of fresh baking wafting through the air.
From 8 am to 1 pm every Saturday, the riverside space transforms into a food lover’s paradise. Expect stalls piled with local produce, homemade breads, Dutch cheese, freshly pressed olive oils, gluten-free pies, French pastries, and plenty of brunch-worthy treats.
Beyond the food, there are also stalls selling glassware, crafts, art prints, and unique gifts, making it a perfect spot to browse and pick up something special. It’s a little on the pricey side compared to other markets, but the quality and charm more than make up for it.
3. Wenderholm Regional Park – Coastal Beauty and Tranquility Near Auckland
If you crave a quiet escape into nature without venturing too far from Auckland, Wenderholm Regional Park is a dream come true. Nestled between the Puhoi and Waiwera Rivers, this coastal haven offers golden beaches, lush forests, and sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf, all just a 30-minute drive from the city.
We started our morning stroll along the riverbank under towering pōhutukawa trees, New Zealand’s iconic “Christmas tree.” Their twisted branches and vibrant flowers (if you visit in summer) frame picture-perfect views of the Puhoi River and the sandy beach beyond. The sound of waves and the cool sea breeze create a sense of peace that’s hard to match.
For history buffs, the Couldrey House and Gardens is a must-visit. This Victorian-Edwardian homestead is open to the public in the afternoons, offering a peek into a bygone era (admission just $5). Even if it’s closed, the gardens are worth a wander.
If you’re up for a walk, the Maungatauhoro lookout rewards you with an incredible panorama of the Hauraki Gulf. With picnic spots, barbecue facilities, and friendly locals (including a few wandering pūkekos!), Wenderholm is perfect for a half-day getaway filled with nature and serenity.
Read the full article here: https://travelwithlens.com/wenderholm-regional-park/
4. North Shore Beaches – Auckland’s Local Summer Paradise
When Aucklanders need a quick coastal escape, they head to the North Shore, home to some of the city’s most beloved beaches. Waiake Beach, Browns Bay, and Murrays Bay are all about golden sands, calm waters, and laid-back vibes perfect for a summer’s day.
We started our beach-hopping adventure with a treat at Euro Patisserie, an award-winning bakery in Torbay (their pies are legendary!). Fueled up, we made our first stop at Waiake Beach. This peaceful bay, framed by greenery and calm turquoise waters, is ideal for a morning swim or paddleboarding session. There’s even a lovely park and plenty of shade if you just want to relax and watch the waves.
Next up, Browns Bay Beach, which is livelier and full of energy. Families picnicked under the sun while kids enjoyed the playground and skate park. The beach stretches in a wide crescent, offering stunning views of Rangitoto Island.
Finally, Murrays Bay charmed us with its scenic jetty and coastal walkway that links to neighboring bays. Perfect for a relaxing stroll, it’s also a photographer’s dream.
If you want sun, sand, and that unmistakable Kiwi beach vibe, North Shore’s beaches are calling!
Read the full article here: https://travelwithlens.com/north-shore-beaches/
5. Warkworth – Kauri Forests, Riverside Walks, and Historic Ruins
Just an hour north of Auckland, the small town of Warkworth offers a rich mix of history, nature, and local charm, perfect for a leisurely half-day trip.
We began at Parry Kauri Park, a peaceful reserve where boardwalk trails wind through lush native bush and towering kauri trees. Some of these giants are centuries old, and walking beneath them is a humbling experience. Along the way, interpretive signs share fascinating stories about New Zealand’s natural heritage. The nearby Warkworth Museum also showcases kauri gum-digging tools, old photographs, and settler history.
Next, we wandered to the Warkworth Town Wharf, a charming riverside spot where the Mahurangi River flows gently past. The boardwalk here makes for a lovely stroll, with benches perfect for relaxing and watching ducks paddle by. It’s also a great place to enjoy a packed lunch from a nearby café.
To finish, we visited the Cement Works Ruins, a striking relic of Warkworth’s industrial past. The crumbling concrete walls now blend with trees and water, creating an unusual scene. Some locals even swim here on warm days!
Warkworth may be small, but it’s full of character and well worth exploring.
Read the full article here: https://travelwithlens.com/things-to-do-in-warkworth/
6. Aratiatia Rapids & Dam – Taupō’s Most Thrilling Natural Show
One of the most dramatic sights in Taupō is watching the Waikato River burst through Aratiatia Rapids when the dam gates open. Located just 16 km from Taupō town, this hydroelectric dam releases 80,000 liters of water per second, transforming a calm gorge into a raging torrent in minutes.
We arrived just before noon and joined the crowd at the mid-viewpoint, perched on high bluffs overlooking the gorge. Sirens sounded three times in five-minute intervals, heightening the anticipation. When the floodgates finally opened, the change was astonishing, with water surging 28 meters within a kilometer, creating crashing waves and walls of white foam. For 15 minutes, the canyon thundered with power before settling back into tranquility.
You can also watch from the Aratiatia Bridge near the car park or take the short walk to different lookouts. Summer releases happen four times daily (10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm), while winter has three.
Beyond the spectacle, the site carries cultural and historical weight. “Aratiatia” means “stairway of Tia”, named after the Māori explorer who admired the rapids. Today, the dam supplies energy to 90,000 homes while still allowing visitors to witness this raw natural force.
Read the full article here: https://travelwithlens.com/aratiatia-rapids/
7. Huka Falls Walkway – From Spa Thermal Park to Huka Falls
Just a short drive north of Lake Taupō lies one of New Zealand’s most visited natural wonders: Huka Falls. Instead of heading straight to the lookout car park, we started at Spa Thermal Park and followed the Huka Falls Walkway, a 3 km trail that turned a simple waterfall visit into a spectacular riverside walk.
The journey begins at Otumuheke Stream, where hot thermal waters flow into the cool, turquoise Waikato River. Locals and travelers alike soak in the little rock pools here, adjusting between warm and cool spots. It’s like nature’s own spa before you even start walking. With a nearby café and facilities, it’s the perfect place to fuel up before the hike.
From there, the track winds along the Waikato River, alternating between shaded bush and open views of the clear, rushing water. As we drew closer, the distant roar of Huka Falls built up, and finally, bam! We were standing before an incredible force of nature. The mighty Waikato, normally 100 meters wide, suddenly squeezes into a 15-meter-wide gorge, sending 220,000 liters of water per second surging through with unbelievable power.
For thrill-seekers, the Huka Falls Jet Boat offers a heart-pounding ride right up to the base of the falls. Whether you walk, soak, or zoom your way here, Huka Falls is an absolute must-see.
👉 Read the full story here: https://travelwithlens.com/huka-falls-walkway/
8. Blue Spring Putaruru and Te Waihou Walkway
If there’s one walk on New Zealand’s North Island that feels like stepping into a dream, it’s the Te Waihou Walkway leading to the Blue Spring in Putaruru. We set off early from the Whites Road carpark, and with the trail blissfully quiet, it felt like we had the whole riverside to ourselves. The path is mostly flat and easy, winding alongside the Waihou River, where the water glimmers in shades of turquoise and emerald so vivid you’ll swear they’ve been photoshopped. Ducks, pukekos, and the occasional trout add life to the journey, while little bridges and waterfalls keep the scenery fresh at every turn.
The full return walk is about 10 km, but if hiking isn’t your thing, you can always cheat a little, drive to the Leslie Road carpark and stroll just 10 minutes to the viewing platform. When you finally see the Blue Spring itself, the clarity and blueness of the water are simply magical, like a liquid jewel hidden in the countryside. This spring supplies most of New Zealand’s bottled water, and it’s as pure as it gets.
👉 Read the full story here: https://travelwithlens.com/blue-spring-putaruru/
9. Waimangu Volcanic Valley – The World’s Youngest Geothermal Wonderland
If you’ve ever wanted to step straight into the aftermath of a volcanic eruption, Waimangu Volcanic Valley is the place. Just a short drive from Rotorua, this geothermal wonderland was born in 1886 during the eruption of Mount Tarawera, making it the youngest geothermal system in the world. Walking through the valley feels like wandering into another planet with steaming craters, bubbling hot springs, colorful terraces, and mineral-rich streams that greet you at every turn.
We began with a self-guided walk from the visitor center, equipped with a handy map that highlighted key areas such as the Emerald Pool, Crystal Wall, and the massive Frying Pan Lake, the largest hot spring on Earth. Even on a foggy morning when visibility was low, the valley’s raw geothermal energy was impossible to ignore. By the time the steam lifted, we were rewarded with glimpses of vibrant silica terraces and geysers spouting away in the distance.
The adventure didn’t end there. A boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana carried us past steaming cliffs, geysers, and the site of the legendary Pink and White Terraces, all while our skipper shared fascinating stories about the valley’s explosive past.
This has been the most memorable North Island NZ attraction I’ve visited so far, and I highly recommend making a special trip to experience it yourself.
👉 Read the full story here: https://travelwithlens.com/waimangu-volcanic-valley/
10. Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave – A
Hidden Geothermal Gem
If Rotorua is the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal wonders, then Orakei Korako is its hidden soul. Tucked away between Rotorua and Taupo, this geothermal park, which is also known as the “Hidden Valley”, is one of the most enchanting places we explored on our North Island trip. To get there, you cross serene Lake Ohakuri by a short ferry ride, and suddenly you’re stepping into a steaming, bubbling wonderland unlike anything else.
The park has it all: colorful silica terraces, gurgling mud pools, and up to 23 active geysers that erupt freely, reshaping the landscape before your eyes. We wandered the 2.5 km boardwalk at our own pace, stopping to admire highlights like the glittering Emerald Terrace, the dramatic Diamond Geyser, and the aptly named Map of Africa, a geothermal pool divided by a ridge into a striking natural design.
One of the most fascinating stops was Ruatapu Cave, one of only two known geothermal caves in the world, leading down to a mysterious “Pool of Mirrors.”
By the time we wrapped up our half-day adventure with lunch at the MudCake Café overlooking Lake Ohakuri, we knew Orakei Korako was one of those rare places where nature feels truly alive.
👉 Read the full story here: https://travelwithlens.com/orakei-korako/
11. Long Bay Beach – Cliffs, Rock Formations, and Coastal Bliss
If you’re after a beach that blends natural beauty with plenty of space to play, Long Bay Beach is a must. Just 20 km north of Auckland, this sweeping stretch of sand is part of Long Bay Regional Park, a coastal sanctuary that protects beaches, reefs, mangroves, and estuaries.
We walked here from home, which took about half an hour, and were immediately welcomed by cheeky pūkekos and ducks wandering about. Families love this spot for its wide grassy lawns, shady pōhutukawa trees, and children’s playgrounds, while swimmers enjoy the calm, crystal-clear waters. With barbecue areas, picnic tables, and even a campsite, it’s a beach for everyone.
What makes Long Bay really shine, though, are the dramatic cliffs and striking rock formations at either end of the bay. Layers of stone carved by time make it a paradise for photographers (and anyone who loves a good seaside stroll). During low tide, the beach stretches even wider, inviting long walks with or without your dog.
If you have more time, the park also offers scenic walking trails, from quick 20-minute strolls to half-day hikes with breathtaking coastal views. Long Bay truly captures Auckland’s coastal magic.
Read the full article here ➡ https://travelwithlens.com/long-bay/
12. Muriwai Beach – Black Sands, Sea Caves, and Gannets
Just a short drive from Auckland, Muriwai Beach will instantly sweep you off your feet with its wild, untamed beauty. The shoreline stretches out dramatically, its iconic black sand shimmering with iron-rich volcanic minerals.
One of the highlights was exploring the Muriwai Grotto, a sea cave formed over centuries by the relentless power of the waves. We were lucky that it was low tide so that we could wander through the damp but surprisingly cozy cave. Looking out from its opening toward the sea felt like gazing through nature’s own picture frame.
Outside, the wet sand reflected the sky like a giant mirror, creating one of the most photogenic moments on the beach of our trip.
Of course, the real stars here are the gannets. Muriwai is home to one of the few mainland gannet colonies in the world. Watching these striking birds with golden heads and black-tipped wings soar overhead and nest on the cliffs was simply unforgettable.
👉 Read the full story here: https://travelwithlens.com/muriwai-beach/
13. Piha Beach – Lion Rock, The Gap & Kitekite Falls
Just 45 minutes from Auckland, Piha Beach is the kind of place that makes you fall in love with New Zealand’s wild west coast. The drive itself is part of the adventure, winding through the lush Waitākere Ranges before opening up to the dramatic sight of Lion Rock, Piha’s most iconic landmark. Sitting between North and South Piha, this volcanic remnant looks like a crouching lion (with a little imagination), and the view from the lookout is simply breathtaking.
The beach itself is unforgettable, with shimmering black sand formed by ancient volcanic activity. I loved watching the wind sweep the dry grains across the surface like rippling fabric. At low tide, we ventured further along the rocks to The Gap, a channel where waves surge between towering cliffs, spraying white foam into the turquoise water. Nearby, the Blue Pool sparkled in the sun, while mussels clung to the rocks.
To round off the day, we headed inland for the short hike to Kitekite Falls. The trail is gentle and shaded, following a stream to a beautiful three-tiered cascade plunging into a wide pool. Peaceful, refreshing, and utterly rewarding, Piha is the perfect blend of coast and forest adventure.
👉 Read the full story here: https://travelwithlens.com/piha-beach/
14. Devonport – A Charming Seaside Escape Just Minutes from Auckland
If you’re looking for a relaxing half-day trip from Auckland, Devonport is the perfect spot. Just a 10-minute ferry ride across the harbor, this picturesque suburb is brimming with history, scenic views, and small-town charm.
Start with a stroll through Devonport’s streets, where grand heritage homes and quaint shops set the tone for a laid-back day. Don’t miss the beautiful St. Francis de Sales and All Souls’ Church, a striking blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture with intricate stained glass. Nearby, the Victoria Theatre, the oldest working cinema in the Southern Hemisphere, adds a nostalgic touch.
For unbeatable views of Auckland’s skyline, head up Mount Victoria (Takarunga). It’s an easy 15-minute walk to the summit, where you’ll find quirky red “mushroom” vents and a serene spot to unwind.
Back in town, explore local art galleries, browse rare books at The Bookmark, or enjoy a coffee in one of the cozy cafés. Round off your visit at Windsor Reserve or take a dip at Cheltenham Beach, both offering stunning harbor views.
Devonport isn’t just a destination. It’s an experience of Auckland’s seaside soul.
Read the full article here: https://travelwithlens.com/things-to-do-in-devonport/
Want to see our video on New Zealand’s North Island?
We’ve put together a collection of the best places to visit ✨ Just click the image below to watch! ▶️”
15. More North Island NZ Attractions
The places listed above are ones we’ve visited in the past two years. I’ve been to New Zealand’s North Island several times before that, but didn’t take many photos or videos during those earlier trips. Along with these, I’ve also included other spots I plan to visit in the future. Perhaps you can consider them when planning your own itinerary. I know I’ll definitely revisit them the next time I return to New Zealand.
Here are more North Island NZ attractions you may want to add to your itinerary:
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves – Magical glowworm boat rides through limestone caves
- Hobbiton Movie Set (Matamata) – Iconic film set from The Lord of the Rings
- Tongariro National Park – Alpine hikes, including the famous Tongariro Crossing
- Hamilton Gardens – Beautiful themed gardens from around the world
- Tauranga & Mount Maunganui – Stunning beaches and a scenic summit walk
- Coromandel Peninsula – Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach
- Bay of Islands (Paihia, Russell) – Cruises, dolphin watching, and history
- Whangārei & Whangārei Falls – Waterfalls and coastal walks
- Rangitoto Island –A Volcanic island with hiking trails near Auckland
- Waiheke Island – Vineyards, beaches, and art galleries
- Mount Taranaki (Taranaki) – Symmetrical volcanic peak with great hikes
- Napier & Hawke’s Bay – Art Deco town and wine region
- Gisborne – Surfing and the first city to see the sunrise
I hope this guide inspires your own journey, whether you’re chasing waterfalls, wandering black-sand beaches, or soaking in hot springs. Wherever you go, the North Island is full of magic, and it will leave its mark on you.
Happy exploring! 🌏✨