North Island is rich both in Maori and European culture and history, and features dramatic landscapes and coastline.
The gateway into the country is Auckland; a vibrant cosmopolitan city built around two vast harbours. To the north highlights include Cape Reinga at the northern tip, Ninety Mile Beach; magnificent native forests, home to the towering kauri tree and the Bay of Islands; an area of pristine islands and beaches that was the setting for the peace treaty between the Maori and the European settlers.
Further south, are the rainforests and beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula, volcanic geysers and bubbling mud pools, Maori culture in Rotorua, award-winning vineyards in Hawke’s Bay and the Wairarapa and the capital city, Wellington, home to the fascinating national museum Te Papa and excellent dining and wildlife experiences.