North Island | New Zealand
Whether it's harbourside Auckland or the geysers of Rotorua, North Island is oozing with incredible experiences. Sail across the sub-tropical Bay of Islands or meet the animals at the Agrodome. Learn the Maori Haka or hunt down the best eats in the capital, Wellington. Come for the Middle-earth-like scenery, but leave having discovered a whole lot more.
Cultural Wonders
Discover the spirit and hospitality of Maori culture in Rotorua. Share a traditional meal of fish, lamb and vegetables cooked in earth ovens known as hangi.
New Zealand's Food Capital
If food is your thing then you’ll love eating your way through Wellington, said to have more restaurants and bars per capita than New York.
Go Geothermal
At Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, you can feel the power of the island’s geothermal forces from bubbling mud pools to spurting geysers.
Highlights of this Region
Discover Maori Culture
The North Island is a hub of fascinating culture and friendly people. Discover the warmth of Maori hospitality in Rotorua’s Te Puia, where you’ll learn about traditional arts and share a hearty meal cooked in a hangi pit oven. Appreciate ancient rituals during a cultural performance including the fierce haka war dance.
Bay of Islands Getaway
The subtropical surrounds of the Bay of Islands make for a superb destination on any New Zealand North Island adventure. Watch out for sea life on a cruise at the tip of the Cape Brett Peninsula and pass through the iconic Hole in the Rock. Relax on the beach or hit the coastal walking trails.
Walk the Waitomo Caves
Descend into the caves, sinkholes and deep dark rivers beneath the lush Waitomo hills and look up to see a canopy studded with thousands of stars. The phenomenon is the work of glow worms that are unique to New Zealand. While exploring the labyrinth of tunnels you’ll also see stalactites, stalagmites, fossils and cave-dwelling critters.
Visit the Agrodome
New Zealand's farming heritage comes to life at the Agrodome. Explore this 64-hectare working cattle and sheep station – a New Zealand classic. You’ll see sheep-shearing demonstrations and dog trials. Walk through the orchard and meet the baby animals in the nursery.
North Island Holidays
Our Fleet
North Island Rail Journeys
Roll through delightful countryside and lush farmland during your trip on the Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train.
Featured Articles
Rotorua - Valley of Legends
This geothermal wonder lies at New Zealand's cultural heart, writes Gary Walsh.
Best of New Zealand's Bay of Islands
Trans-Tasman travel is back on and North Island's stunning subtropical enclave looks more inviting than ever.
Experience New Zealand’s Maori Culture
Enrich your trip to New Zealand by delving into Maori culture in these North Island hotspots, explored by Elisabeth Easther.
Explore More
New Zealand's South Island
From bright blue lakes to crystal-clear fiords, golden vineyards and a magnificent collection of snow-dusted peaks, explore New Zealand's South Island.
New Zealand
Discover all that New Zealand has to offer on a premium escorted Travelmarvel tour. You'll be stunned by majestic scenery, captivated by small towns and big cities alike, and impressed by the strength of Maori culture.
Australia
Just across 'the ditch', Australia's astonishing range of landscapes enthrals visitors, from the green tropics to the Red Centre, and the rugged coastline of the Kimberley to Tasmania's wilderness and gourmet food and wine.