Things to do North of Auckland

Travel North of Auckland - Auckland Central Forum

We' ll travel the first fortnight in March and have one weeks time to visit Auckland and the North. More information would be needed, but would suggest as far as Paihia or Kerikeri, which are both magnificent bases for travelling the Bay of Islands, where there is much to do to take an entire week if you so wish.

New Zealand's historical monuments (from 1820 ish), the first capitol of the land, beautiful sandy beach, scuba dives, boat dives through the holes in the rocks, missionshouses, isles, glittering turquoise waters, all are up there. Otherwise we continue to the shores of Mangonui and Doubtless Bay and from there to the top of the Cape Reinga where the Maori ghosts climb down a Pohutukawa to the underworld.

They could come back via the Hokianga harbour and the Waipoua forest with the biggest Kauri tree in the land to prevent their abandon. Like deSchenke says - maybe a little more in the Bay of Islands, it's a really nice area. There is much to see and do in the Bay of Islands.

However Northland' s far north has more unbelievable countryside that is different from the Bay of Islands. The Whangarei Heads and Tutukaka coasts, for example, have a breathtaking, less frequented landscape, as well as the Poor Knights Islands door. Over the Doubtless Bay Cape Karikari is definitely a worthwhile visit.

The Hokianga port (both north and south) is also great, as is the Waipoua forest. The Matakohe Museum with its marvelous portrayal of the early settlements around Northland, which concentrates on the Kauri rubber and wood trading, should not be left out. If you are planning a one-week trip, please do not limit yourself to the Bay of Islands.

The goal is also to arrive at Cape Reinga. You can also take a trip from Kaitaia with Harrison's Cape Runner. From Kerikeri and Paihia there are also sailings (other companies).