Located north of the large city of Auckland is the narrow strip of land that stretches to Cape Reinga
Also known as “The Far North”, there is a whole region to explore, from the grounds of Waitangi where the countries founding document (Treaty of Waitangi) was presented and signed, to the tallest oldest Kauri tree, bays, beaches, caves, waterfalls, cycle trails, cafes, museums, gum fields and just too much more to list.
Some say the north of the North Island stays in summer mode all year round. Well not really but the winters are mild compared to the south and the summers can be very hot and dry.
So what are the highlights or “must do” activities or places to see and do.
Heading north from Auckland on State Highway One you’ll battle long cues of traffic, narrow busy roads that suddenly appear after a long motorway section with an amazing tunnel.
Let’s start at the Whangaparaoa Peninsula just 30 minutes by motorway from Auckland Central, on a fine day! There are some 13 beaches which are all safe for swimming, provide excellent facilities for family get together’s and is now a suburb of Auckland having upgraded from seaside batches to swanky modern homes.
There are a number of beach-side reserves, shops, cafe’s, movie theatre and even a ferry ride back to Auckland.
Just a little further north is Orewa Beach and Waiwera Thermal Pools. The walk along the beach is well worth the effort and the pools offer some of the best water slides in the country.
Further north is the wine region of Warkworth, Matakana and Snells Beach. One of my must go to places is Goat Island Marine Reserve, especially in summer. It is a very popular with locals as you can swim with the fish with a snorkel and mask. There are hire boats with glass bottoms and a glass bottom boat tour you can take. A marine science division of Auckland University is also found here. Try to avoid visiting weekends and public holidays in summer.
The region is bursting with local markets, wineries, cafe’s and restaurants. You can explore a number of beaches and the roads are mostly sealed and suitable for all vehicles. In the summer, book your accommodation well in advance.
Moving northwards there are a large number of beaches and bays to explore until you reach the main city of Northland, Whangarei. Here you can stock up on food and fuel, explore the city and marina. Not far from the city is Tutukaka and Whangarei Heads. All worth the time to explore.
Just another 90 minute north is what I call the “jewel” of the north. Paihia and Russell part of the Bay of Islands. This a remarkable area with waterfalls, boat rides through the “Hole in the Rock” and fruit orchards everywhere.
Here’s some pictures of our March 2018 trip cruising through the “Hole in the Rock.
Heading to the famous “Hole in the Rock”
This large tourist boat takes you right through the “hole”