Things to do in Northland
Discover the best attractions and experiences Northland has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the places that shaped Northland’s past, from treaty signing to early colonial life.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, rich in Maori and colonial history.
Pompallier Mission and Printery
Early Catholic mission and printing press housed in an historic building.
The Stone Store (Kerikeri Mission Station)
Historic stone warehouse and part of the Kerikeri Mission Station, among NZ’s oldest commercial buildings.
Museums
Delve into local stories through Northland’s museums and heritage sites.
Kauri Museum
Exhibits on kauri timber, early settlers, and Northland life near Matakohe.
Russell Museum
Local history museum in Russell with maritime and colonial artifacts.
Stone Store (Kerikeri)
Historic stone building housing exhibitions about Kerikeri’s mission era.
Religious Monuments
Visit historic places of worship that echo the region’s spiritual heritage.
St James Anglican Church, Kerikeri
Historic church with ties to the area’s missionary history.
Christ Church, Russell
Historic church in the Bay of Islands with a storied past.
National & Theme Parks
Northland’s landscapes range from ancient forests to coastal reserves and dramatic dunes.
Waipoua Forest
Famous kauri forest, home to Tane Mahuta, with scenic trails.
Te Paki Coastal Reserve & Cape Reinga area
Iconic coastline with dunes, a lighthouse, and sweeping views.
Puketi Forest Reserve
Ancient kauri forest with walking tracks near Kawakawa.
Neighborhoods
Experience the distinct character of Northland’s towns and communities.
Whangārei Town Centre
Vibrant waterfront area with markets, galleries, and eateries.
Kerikeri
Historic town centered on the Kerikeri Mission and arts scene.
Paihia
Gateway to the Bay of Islands with beaches and boat trips.
Russell (Kororareka)
Historic village with colonial architecture and harbor views.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the outdoors and coastal scenery with these free activities.
Paihia Beach
Relax on the sandy shore and swim in clear waters.
Whangārei Falls
Short, easy walk to a picturesque waterfall near Whangārei.
Cape Reinga viewpoints (short tracks)
Panoramic coastal views from accessible tracks.
Gastronomy
Savor Northland’s farm-to-table produce and coastal flavors.
Marsden Estate Winery
Boutique winery in Kerikeri with tastings and scenic grounds.
Duke of Marlborough Hotel (Russell)
Historic hotel offering classic pub meals and local flavors.
Kerikeri Farmers Market
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, and prepared foods.
Nightlife
Evenings offer relaxed bars, waterfront vibe, and sunset experiences.
Duke of Marlborough Hotel (Russell) – bar & pub
Historic hotel with a lively bar and evening atmosphere.
Parua Bay Tavern
Casual seaside pub with drinks and occasional music.
Bay of Islands sunset cruise (evening departures)
Relaxing evening cruise to soak in the sunset.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and venues bring Northland’s arts scene to life.
Forum North (Whangārei)
Regional venue for theatre, concerts, and performances.
Kauri Cliffs Golf Resort entertainment
Golf resort events and social gatherings.
Bay of Islands sailing charters & live music events
Evening sails with onboard entertainment.
Sports
Active travelers can enjoy golf, water sports, and outdoor activities.
Kauri Cliffs Golf Course
World-class golf with dramatic coastal scenery.
Whangārei Golf Club
Historic course offering a relaxed round near the city.
Bay of Islands fishing trips
Sportfishing and sailing adventures around the Bay of Islands.
Off the Track
Go off the beaten path with forest, dune, and lighthouse explorations.
Te Paki Sand Dunes
Sandboarding on dramatic dunes along the Cape Reinga coast.
Waipoua Forest night walk
Guided night walk among ancient kauri trees.
Cape Reinga Lighthouse walk
Remote coastal track with iconic lighthouse and views.